SIBU: Discussions will be held on additional funding to help alleviate the people’s burden following the flood disaster in Sarawak, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“Today (Feb 1), I received feedback that the previously announced RM10 million fund (to assist flood victims) may not be sufficient.
“So, I will bring this matter to the Cabinet again to ensure that those who are truly in need of this assistance can continue to receive the necessary support to ease their burden caused by the floods,” he said.
He said this at the United Chinese Association (UCA) Chinese New Year celebration, which was attended by more than 1,000 guests at a hotel here last night (Feb 1).
Abang Johari also expressed his sympathy and concern for the victims of the flood and landslide, assuring that appropriate aid would continue to be provided.
“I had the opportunity to meet with the families of landslide victims in Miri, as well as residents affected by the floods in Bintulu.
“I was informed that this is the worst flood to have hit Bintulu in over 30 years. Previously, the annual rainfall in Bintulu was around 100 millimetres.
“However, on the day the flood occurred, Bintulu recorded a rainfall of 900 millimetres,” he added.
During a visit to Miri on Friday (Jan 31), Abang Johari approved an additional RM10 million allocation for the State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) to facilitate relief efforts for flood victims.
With this allocation, he said SDMC would be able to distribute aid to all areas affected by the floods.
