Uggah: Harness AI, data analytics for stronger early warning systems

KUCHING (March 10): Disaster management agencies in Sarawak should expand the use of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics to strengthen early warning systems and improve disaster preparedness, said Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.

The Deputy Premier and State Disaster Management Committee chairman said agencies including the Department of Irrigation and Drainage, Malaysian Meteorological Department, and Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UKPS) should explore new technological solutions to enhance their disaster prediction and response capabilities.

According to a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) report, Uggah said leveraging such technologies could help authorities improve the mobilisation of assistance.

“We must utilise the latest technology so that we can predict earlier areas that may be affected by floods,” he said during an appreciation event for government agencies here on Monday.

Uggah noted that disaster management systems abroad have demonstrated how technology can assist authorities in predicting potential disasters several days in advance.

“With better forecasting technology, we may be able to anticipate high-risk areas two or three days earlier and make the necessary preparations, including relocating residents and organising logistics,” he said.

He pointed out that past floods in Selangau highlighted logistical challenges, as disaster response assets took time to be mobilised from Kuching.

Given Sarawak’s vast geographical size, he stressed that better planning and the use of technology were essential to ensure assets and assistance could be deployed more efficiently during emergencies.