SARAWAK is seeing unprecedented levels of rising water levels and sudden rainfall due to the impact of climate change in this state, said Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg.
He said the great floods that happened early this month and last month are evidences of this worrying climatic change.
"The amount of rain and level of rising water were never seen before in places like Bintulu district (northern Sarawak).
"In a single day, up to 900 mm of rainfall was recorded when in the past, only about 100 mm was recorded in a whole year.
"Such are the consequences of climatic changes that have impact us.
"That is why we need to address these climate change factors urgently," he said.
Abang Johari said all levels of society must be aware of the factors that trigger climate changes.
He said carbon emissions and environmental degradation must be tackled more comprehensively.
At least 26 districts in Sarawak were hit by severe floods and landslides during the late December-January-early February period.
Many flood victims are still struggling to get their damaged homes, farms and properties repaired.
On Feb 9, Sarawak Parti Keadilan Rakyat called on the Sarawak authorities to speed up the process of giving financial aid to flood victims in this state.
State PKR chairman Roland Engan said the authorities must go to the ground in afflicted flood zones to help affected families.
"The authorities must simplify the application process for financial aid for flood victims as they are in urgent need of swift aid.
"The losses they suffered are devastating, with many homes and vehicles and farms damaged to huge extents.
"The authorities must reach out to these flood victims; not use the normal process of waiting for the flood victims to go apply for aid," he said. – February 26, 2025
