Flood leaves Kuching family homeless, urging immediate aid

KUCHING (Jan 3): Recent flooding has left many city residents severely affected, with some losing not only their belongings but also the homes they have lived in for years.

Among them is Saliah Sapuan, 59, a resident of Kampung Tengah Sungai, whose home was badly damaged when floodwaters inundated the village.

“This is by far the worst incident. I have lived there for about 10 years, and we have never experienced flooding as bad as this,” she said when met by reporters at the temporary evacuation centre (PPS) at SJKC Chung Hua Sungai Tengah here.

Saliah said her family had been evacuated during previous flood seasons, but the scale of destruction this time was unprecedented.

“This is the first time my house has been so badly damaged by flooding,” she added.

Recounting the ordeal, Saliah said the flood struck in the early hours of the morning.

“I was getting ready for ‘subuh’ prayers when I realised water had started entering the house. I quickly woke my husband, and we later moved to safety after being advised by the authorities,” she said.

Her family — comprising Saliah, her 65-year-old husband and their young grandchild — is currently seeking shelter at the PPS.

According to Saliah, authorities have since informed them that the house is no longer safe to occupy.

“The retaining structure along the riverbank collapsed, allowing water to rush straight into the house. Cracks have also appeared on the floor due to the strong current,” she said.

With no alternative accommodation, Saliah is appealing to the government and relevant agencies for assistance.

“I hope the authorities can ease our burden and help us repair the house. We have applied for aid such as e-Kasih several times, but so far we have not received any assistance,” she said, adding that only her grandchild currently receives financial aid as an orphan.

When asked if she would consider relocating to a safer area, Saliah said it would be difficult as her family depends on the river for their livelihood.

“My husband is a fisherman — it is our only source of income and how we support our household,” she said.

Saliah hopes the authorities will step forward to extend assistance, as her family remains vulnerable in the aftermath of the disaster.