Bintulu: Additional personnel from the Sibu and Miri Fire and Rescue stations (BBPs), along with those from BBP Labuan and BBP Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, have been mobilised to assist in disaster relief efforts in Bintulu.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Bintulu Member of Parliament Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing stated that the personnel are expected to arrive tomorrow, although the exact number has not been specified. In addition to the personnel, two speedboats from the Progressive Democratic Party’s (PDP) Central Region Disaster Relief Task Force will be deployed to support rescue operations. Tiong, who is also the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) and PDP president, expressed his gratitude to the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (JPBN) for their prompt response.
Tiong personally participated in the relief efforts, braving floodwaters and heavy rain alongside relief personnel to assist affected residents on the first day of Chinese New Year. He acknowledged the swift mobilisation of the relevant authorities, including the Fire and Rescue Department, Malaysia Civil Defence Force, the military, and the police, through close coordination with the Resident’s Office to carry out rescue and relief efforts.
He extended his appreciation to Sarawak Deputy Premier and JPBN chairman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, as well as all rescue personnel and relief teams. He also commended the members of the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) and the P217 Bintulu Service Centre team for deploying search and rescue boats to flood-affected areas to evacuate stranded residents and relocate them to designated flood relief centres.
Tiong highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that after three days and two nights of heavy rain, Bintulu has been severely inundated, with widespread flooding affecting numerous areas. In the worst-hit locations, water levels have risen dangerously close to the second floor of residential buildings, leaving many victims stranded.
He urged those in need of assistance to contact him directly or reach out to the P217 Bintulu Parliamentary Constituency Service Centre or the Special Affairs Officer to MOTAC, Steven Kong Kai Seng, as well as other provided contacts. Tiong also advised residents to minimise outdoor activities and prioritise safety due to strong currents.
Currently, five relief centres are operational in Bintulu parliamentary constituency: at Pusat Sukan BDA Kidurong; Balai Raya Jepak; Stadium Muhibah; Dewan Suarah Bintulu; and Dewan Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Assyakarin Sungai Plan.