Deputy Minister: Sarawak strengthens disaster management through digitalisation

SIBU (March 11): Disaster management in Sarawak is being strengthened through digitalisation with the use of the Social Welfare Department’s (JKM) Disaster Information System and the MyIBJKM application to speed up victim registration and the distribution of assistance during disasters, said Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam.

According to the Deputy Minister of Community Wellbeing Development, the system enables victims’ information to be recorded in a more systematic manner as it is integrated with data from the National Registration Department (NRD).

“The integration ensures that the information is authentic and has integrity, thus preventing duplication or omission in the distribution of aid.

“This digitalisation also speeds up the assistance process, including the ‘Bantuan Wang Ihsan’ (BWI), so that it reaches eligible victims faster, more accurately and transparently,” he said when officiating at the appreciation ceremony for Central Zone Temporary Evacuation Centre (PPS) personnel here on Tuesday.

Mohammad Razi stressed the role of community leaders and village chiefs (KMKK) in ensuring that digital initiatives such as MyIBJKM are fully utilised by the community.

“KMKK serve as a link between the government and local residents by helping to disseminate information, provide explanations and encourage early registration.

“KMKK are the closest to the community. They identify victims, disseminate early registration information and ensure that no residents are left out from receiving assistance,” he said.

He added that public awareness of early registration will expedite data collection and verification should a disaster occur.

“Sibu Division experienced a major flood from Jan 9 to 12, 2026, which affected more than 5,000 victims from about 1,200 families.

“Affected areas included Kampung Nangka, Sungai Merah, Sungai Antu and low-lying areas near the Rajang River, causing damage to homes and property as well as disruption to electricity and water supply.

“This situation proves that disaster management requires comprehensive cooperation between government agencies, community leaders and the local community to ensure assistance is delivered quickly, accurately and effectively,” he said.

Meanwhile, the event was organised to recognise the efforts of all PPS personnel who worked tirelessly to assist disaster victims, including preparing food, providing basic necessities and coordinating operations at evacuation centres.

It also brought together participation from various parties in the Central Zone of Sarawak, including government departments, educational institutions and the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) for the first time.

Among those present were Sarawak Welfare Department director Semawi Mohamad and Kapit Resident Elvis Didit.