Sarawak launchers flood mitigation projects: Chief Minister

KUCHING: The Sarawak state government has launched several flood mitigation projects throughout the state, especially in city areas such as the barrage system in Kuching, flood mitigation projects in Sibu, pump gates in Bau and the Bengoh Dam.
According to Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, the barrage system in Sungai Sarawak could control the level of river water spillover during the North East Monsoon and extra-ordinary rainfall, as well as to maintain a balance in the river water level, thus reducing the risk of flooding.
"The state government hopes to implement more projects like these, especially in the flood-prone areas," he said.
Abang Johari's speech was read out by Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas who is also chairman of the Sarawak Flood Management Committee at the launch of the 2017 National Preparedness Month at the Kuching Waterfront here today.
He said the government was aware that the local community must be involved in all efforts to prepare for disasters.
He said during disasters, the role of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) was also important in providing help and services.
Abang Johari also urged more NGOs and individuals to provide assistance during disasters.
He added that the state government had also been given allocation to purchase drones and to provide facilities for HF/VHF communications.
While the drones would make it easier to conduct early surveillance in disaster-hit areas which could not be accessed by land routes, the HF/VHF communication facilities would set up an alternative communication network during disasters. — Bernama