Authorities ramp up aid as northern Sarawak floods displace hundreds

KUCHING (Dec 11): The flood situation in northern Sarawak has worsened, with the number of evacuees rising to 191 as of Dec 10, despite an overall decrease in the state’s total to 152 following the closure of one relief centre.

State Deputy Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Development II (Community Wellbeing Development) Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam attributed the severe flooding to heavy rainfall and king tides over the past week, which has badly affected settlements along rivers.

He identified Subis as one of the worst-hit areas, where road and pipeline disruptions have cut off access to clean water for residents.

“Through the State Social Welfare Department, we have been coordinating closely with the Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) to address the issues as effectively as possible,” he said.

“Assistance, including bottled drinking water and water tankers provided by JBALB, has already been delivered to the affected areas,” he told reporters when met during the Sarawak Persons with Disabilities (PwD) Day 2025 celebration here yesterday.

He assured that this marks the third day of continuous relief efforts, with field officers collaborating with district offices to identify impacted residents.

While full details are still being compiled, the government is committed to expediting aid delivery, restoring essential services, and providing immediate relief.

Razi also urged residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and follow instructions from the State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC).

Currently, four relief centres remain open in northern Sarawak, including Dewan Bulan Sabit Merah Miri, SK Suai Niah, and SK Kampung Angus.