SARAWAK TO SET UP COMMITTEE TO ADDRESS FLOODS

BINTULU, Jan 14 (Bernama) -- Sarawak will establish a special committee tasked with formulating comprehensive and long-term planning and solutions to address flood problems in the state, including aspects of engineering, drainage systems and river management.

Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg told this to reporters after visiting the Dewan Suarah Bintulu Temporary Evacuation Centre (PPS), which is housing flood victims from the Ulu Sebauh area, here today.

“I will set up a committee at the state level for us to plan and implement the best solutions to the flood problem,” he said.

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He said there had been suggestions to dredge rivers for the purpose, but in his view, sedimentation would continue to occur even if such measures were taken.

“So we are looking for other alternative approaches. We will discuss first; we do not want to make hasty announcements. This committee will examine all options and plan sustainable solutions,” he said.

Abang Johari said efforts to resolve flood issues would also involve developers.

Commenting on infrastructure damage caused by the current floods, he said repair works on affected roads would not be carried out immediately due to the risk of subsequent flood waves during the monsoon period.

“We will rebuild after the monsoon season ends to avoid repeated repairs,” he said.

Meanwhile, Abang Johari also praised the effectiveness of flood aid management in the Sebauh area, where the delivery of assistance to flood victims had been smooth and satisfactory, including in terms of shelter, welfare and health support provided.

-- BERNAMA