Heading to safety: A man steering his family through floodwaters after they evacuated their home in Kampung Hilir Serian. — ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE / The Star
SERIAN: “Stubborn” flood victims have been urged to evacuate immediately if instructed by the Sarawak disaster management committee (JPBN) for their safety and that of their loved ones, says Datuk Douglas Uggah Embas.
According to the Deputy Premier, some individuals were still reluctant to move to relief centres (PPS).
“They are still waiting, but their lives could be in danger if the floods worsen,” he said.
“That’s why we are advising affected residents to evacuate immediately.
“Authorities such as the police, fire department and military personnel must also convince them to evacuate.
“The police have also been instructed to monitor flood-affected villages to prevent any untoward incidents,” he said after visiting the flood relief centre at the Serian community hall, Bernama reported.
Uggah said pets were not allowed at relief centres as they may carry diseases that could infect humans.
Meanwhile, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said four sections of the Pan Borneo Highway in Sarawak have been affected by flooding, namely in Serian, Selangau, Bakun and Pujut.
“The most important thing right now is that all of these roads are still passable, including for light vehicles. There is no need for any closure along the Pan Borneo Highway.
“Our top priority now is the safety and comfort of road users,” he said after inspecting the impacted sections of the highway yesterday.
