SARAWAK FLOOD VICTIMS URGED TO BE PATIENT AS AID DISTRIBUTION CONTINUES

BETONG, April 5 (Bernama) -- Victims of the widespread floods that struck several parts of Sarawak last February, who have not yet received financial aid, have been urged to be patient.

Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) chairman, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said approximately 5,600 families had been affected by the disaster, and the process of disbursing aid would take some time.

"To date, we have paid RM1,000 to about 3,600 families. We are still verifying details for the remaining families, and the payments are being made online by the District Offices," he said.

Uggah, who is also the Deputy Premier of Sarawak, spoke to reporters after making Hari Raya Aidilfitri visits at Kampung Spaoh today.

He added that the District Offices have the necessary data for families who sought shelter at temporary relief centres during the floods, which helps to facilitate aid disbursement.

"For families who chose not to move to these centres, we will still provide aid, but we need confirmation from the District Office and an understanding of why they did not relocate. If the reasons are reasonable, we will proceed with the payment," Uggah said.

On the damage to roads and longhouses caused by the flood and soil erosion, Uggah, who is also the State Minister for Infrastructure and Ports Development, said the state cabinet had approved RM100 million for repair and remedial work.

The Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR Sarawak) has already begun repairs, with most of the affected roads now restored. For more severe damage, assessments are still ongoing.

"We will continue to do our best to minimise the anxiety and stress of the flood victims and the people," Uggah assured.

-- BERNAMA