KUCHING (Feb 5): The role of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) cannot be underestimated when it comes to response to disasters, as can be seen in the recent floods.

In pointing this out, Deputy Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi said while government agencies and security forces hold a significant responsibility in disaster management, NGOs provide critical on-the-ground support, ensuring that all aid and assistance would reach affected communities swiftly and effectively.

“For those impacted by floods or any other disasters, this assistance is meant to ease their burden.

“While the government and the military are mobilised to provide emergency aid, NGOs are often the ones who are able to reach those in need more efficiently, offering immediate relief and long-term support,” he said.

He was speaking at a ceremony to present allocations amounting to RM282,000 from the Pantai Damai Service Centre here to 67 organisations, including NGOs and educational institutions from the Pantai Damai constituency.

Adding on, Dr Abdul Rahman also emphasised the importance of collaboration between NGOs, government agencies and other groups towards enhancing the preparedness for disasters and improving response efforts.

Moreover, the Pantai Damai assemblyman underscored the need for greater participation of youths in community-building efforts, ensuring that they would continue to be well-informed about Sarawak’s long-term development agenda.

“I would like to emphasise is that in facilitating our growth journey, we want to make sure that we can deliver information to the members of the community, especially when it involves the younger generation.

“Perhaps it is not just about sharing the objectives of our leadership direction or the utilisation of Sarawak’s resources currently being pursued by our leadership—more importantly, our leadership is making provisions for the people, ensuring a better future for Sarawak in the next 10 to 20 years,” he added.