MIRI (Feb 7): Improvements to the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for flood response in Subis District are necessary to address weaknesses and shortcomings, particularly in relief operations for flood victims, said Sibuti MP Dato Lukanisman Awang Sauni.

The Federal Deputy Health Minister acknowledged receiving public complaints and criticisms, including from social media users, regarding the effectiveness of flood relief efforts in his constituency.

“I know that whatever efforts and actions have been taken during the floods are not enough for the community and the people of Subis.

“But the improvement of SOPs during floods needs to be carefully thought about,” he said in a Facebook post today.

Lukanisman revealed that as of Wednesday, the Subis Disaster Management Committee had recorded 5,143 households, comprising 24,071 individuals, affected by the floods.

He also expressed surprise at the severity of flooding in Bekenu, which he had not anticipated reaching such an extent.

Lukanisman further disclosed that telecommunications and electricity services had been disrupted in the flooded areas, including Bekenu town.

On the issue of aid distribution, he admitted that initial coordination was ineffective due to the simultaneous flooding in Miri and Subis, compounded by the fact that only two welfare officers were available to oversee relief efforts in Subis.

“When the PPS (temporary evacuation centres) were unprepared and the road was disconnected, the time to build a team, collect boats and buy food baskets became complicated,” he said.

Despite these difficulties, he expressed gratitude to the Subis Disaster Management Committee and all volunteers for their dedication and hard work in ensuring the safety and welfare of flood victims.