The collection of data on properties damaged by floods in Sarawak will begin today, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said yesterday.

He instructed residents’ offices in the seven affected divisions to submit reports detailing the damage.

“This is crucial to assess the losses suffered by flood victims,” he said after visiting the temporary relief centre at Ranchan Multipurpose Hall.

“We do not have an estimate of the damage, so we will start collecting data tomorrow (today),” said Uggah, who also chairs the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee.

The reports will cover damage to both public and private properties, and the state and federal governments have allocated funds to assist victims.

At the Balai Ringin temporary relief centre, Uggah said 63 relief centres had been set up across the seven divisions, accommodating 12,692 flood victims from 3,696 families up to Friday night.

“We received reports that conditions at the centres are improving, with victims provided food, blankets, pillows and other essentials.

“The Welfare Department also reported that two elderly flood victims fell ill and have received medical treatment.”

He added that the Welfare Department would transport essential supplies to Kampung Merakai, which has been cut off by the floods.

“We are monitoring the situation to ensure food and essentials reach affected villages. If water levels continue to rise, residents will need to evacuate.”

As the state Infrastructure and Port Development minister, Uggah has instructed the Public Works Department to repair 20 damaged sections of the Pan Borneo Highway between Serian and Balai Ringin.

Meanwhile, two relief centres in Bau have been closed as flood victims returned to their villages.

“I am pleased to see water levels receding in most areas, and I hope there will be no further heavy rain,” he said.