KUCHING: The Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) convened a crucial meeting on Oct 8 to outline preparations for the upcoming Northeast Monsoon, expected to commence in early November 2024 and last until March 2025.
The monsoon is anticipated to bring heavy rainfall, particularly from December 2024 to February 2025, with the heaviest downpours forecast for January 2025.
“The prolonged rainfall poses a high risk of flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas, with the situation expected to worsen if heavy rain coincides with high tides.
“The Sarawak Meteorological Department’s predictions have prompted state authorities to take proactive measures to mitigate the impact of potential disasters,” said Deputy Premier and SDMC chairman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas through a statement, today (Oct 9).
SDMC, in collaboration with key response agencies such as the Royal Malaysia Police, the Fire and Rescue Department, and the Malaysian Civil Defence Force, has mobilised a total of 9,817 personnel.
“They will be supported by 295 land assets, 211 sea/river vessels, 20 air units, and 269 auxiliary assets. All resources are on standby to respond swiftly to any emergency situations during the monsoon,”he said.
The Department of Social Welfare has ensured that disaster relief supplies are well-stocked across storage depots, office warehouses, and forward bases throughout Sarawak.
Furthermore, 660 Temporary Evacuation Centres capable of sheltering 160,719 evacuees are ready to be activated if necessary.
In addition, the Sarawak Department of Irrigation and Drainage has undertaken 332 River Conservation Projects aimed at improving drainage systems, enhancing water flow, and reducing the risk of floods while simultaneously improving the health of river ecosystems.
He also stressed the importance of all agencies under the Divisional and District Disaster Management Committees being fully prepared with the necessary assets and logistics.
Uggah also urged the public to make early preparations, especially for evacuation, and to safeguard important documents from potential damage during floods.
“I am confident that with the cooperation of all relevant departments and agencies, we can ensure smooth disaster management across all levels,” he said.
The Northeast Monsoon, typically associated with increased rainfall and higher risks of natural disasters, is expected to have a significant impact on various parts of Sarawak over the coming months.
