OYA: The Sarawak government has allocated RM349,361 to enhance preparedness for the upcoming Northeast Monsoon (MTL) through the establishment of forward bases.
Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said the allocation will be used to purchase essential aid supplies, including dry food and clean water.
“This initiative covers seven divisions: Kuching, Sri Aman, Betong, Mukah, Kapit, Bintulu, and Miri.
“In addition, the allocation approved by the state cabinet will ensure that aid such as food, clothing, and pocket money is delivered to those in need,” she said during the inauguration ceremony of the Northeast Monsoon Preparation Training (MTL) 2024 Central Zone, organised by the Civil Defence Force (APM) at the Kaul Oya Site yesterday.
Fatimah, who is also the Dalat assemblywoman, explained that the forward bases are designed to supply aid to areas accessible by waterways, ensuring prompt distribution during emergencies.
“In Sarawak, we have 31 forward bases equipped with sufficient supplies of basic food tailored to the population based on surveys conducted.
“The food is kept in good condition and is within its expiry date to ensure readiness for any potential disconnection caused by flooding, especially in remote areas lacking road access, such as Nanga Baoh in Dalat,” she explained.
Fatimah assured that the allocation for food and logistics at both the forward bases and temporary evacuation centres is sufficient to meet the needs of affected populations during the monsoon season.
