OFFICIAL PORTAL
PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT
NATIONAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT AGENCY
PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT
NATIONAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT AGENCY
SIBU (March 21): The rising water levels in the Batang Rajang river basin have raised alarms, with several telemetry stations reporting readings exceeding danger thresholds, prompting immediate attention from authorities and residents.
As of 10.45am today, the Kapit New Headworks station recorded a water level of 18.22m, significantly above the normal 6.25m and surpassing the danger level of 15.80m.
Similarly, the Kapit Town station reported 17.82m, exceeding its danger level of 15.30m.
Other telemetry stations are also showing concerning trends. In Kanowit town, the water level has risen to 6.47m, surpassing the danger level of 5.59m.
At Durin Bazaar, the water level stands at 5.16m, above the danger threshold of 4.50m.
Additionally, Sungai Salim recorded a water level of 4.19m, exceeding its danger level of 3.10m, while at the Sibu Express Terminal, the water reached 3.03m, surpassing the danger mark of 2.90m.
Ranan Kemiding has also recorded 8.18m, surpassing its danger level of 7.17m.
These alarming levels significantly heighten the risk of flooding, particularly in Kanowit and Kapit town, where water levels are well above critical thresholds.
Local officials urge residents to remain vigilant and prepare for possible evacuations as conditions may worsen with continued rainfall.
Meanwhile, Sibu Zone 4 Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Chief Andy Alie said today that fire stations within the Sibu Zone are on standby around the clock, closely monitoring the flood situation and providing timely updates.
He advised the public to obtain official information on weather conditions and river water levels through the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) and Sarawak Rivers Board official channels. For immediate assistance from rescue agencies, residents can call the emergency line at 999.
“Information on nearby temporary evacuation centres (PPS) can also be obtained through the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) website.
“The community’s safety is our top priority. We encourage everyone to stay informed and take necessary precautions,” he said.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide regular updates to ensure public safety.
“Residents are advised to heed warnings and stay updated through official communication channels,” Andy reminded.
As the Batang Rajang river continues to rise, the community must remain prepared for sudden changes that could impact daily life and safety.
PUTRAJAYA, March 21 — The federal government, through the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), has channelled RM50.61 million in funds to assist flood victims in Johor, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
He said the funds include RM50 million for Compassionate Cash Aid (BWI), RM500,000 for Disaster Operations Management, and RM114,609 for the maintenance of temporary relief centres.
“I extend my heartfelt sympathy to the residents affected by the floods in Johor Bahru, Kluang, Kota Tinggi, Pontian, and Kulai districts.
“I hope all flood victims will continue to be strong and patient, especially those preparing for Aidilfitri,” Ahmad Zahid, who is also National Disaster Management Committee chairman said in a statement today.
NADMA Disaster Control Centre reported that as of noon today, the number of flood victims evacuated to relief centres in Johor has surged to 10,851 from only 753 yesterday.
Ahmad Zahid said the State Disaster Management Committee (JPBN) had mobilised its assets to ensure that search and rescue operations for victims could be carried out as efficiently as possible.
“A total of 8,289 personnel, with 206 boats, 157 SUVs/vans, 91 lorries, 15 ambulances, two aircraft and a drone have been mobilised or placed on standby for the flood operations in Johor.
“NADMA has also issued Disaster Operations Preparedness Notices on March 18, 19, and 21 to the State and District Disaster Management Committees following continuous rain warnings from the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MET Malaysia).
“These notices aim to enhance preparedness in dealing with potential disasters in high-risk areas,” he said.
Ahmad Zahid also said that the country is expected to enter the monsoon transition phase, during which conditions may encourage the formation of thunderclouds, potentially leading to heavy rain accompanied by strong winds in short periods.
“What concerns us is that this phenomenon could cause flash floods and damage to fragile structures,” he remarked.
The deputy prime minister also expressed his gratitude to all parties and the local community who worked tirelessly to help the flood victims and provided assistance and contributions in various forms to ease the burden of the victims.
“This also includes non-governmental organisations (NGOs) under RakanNADMA such as the Pertubuhan Ihsan Johor and Southern Volunteers who have mobilised 200 volunteers who are focusing on immediate food aid and other assistance totalling RM175,000,” he said.
To reduce the risk of loss of life due to this weather phenomenon, Ahmad Zahid said he had instructed all authorities including district offices and response agencies to closely monitor high-risk areas.
“I would also like to advise the public to remain vigilant and stay alert to the current weather changes before planning any activities, especially with the upcoming festive season,” he added. — Bernama
PUTRAJAYA: The federal government, through the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), has channelled RM50.61 million in funds to assist flood victims in Johor, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
He said the funds include RM50 million for Compassionate Cash Aid (BWI), RM500,000 for Disaster Operations Management, and RM114,609 for the maintenance of temporary relief centres.
“I extend my heartfelt sympathy to the residents affected by the floods in Johor Bahru, Kluang, Kota Tinggi, Pontian, and Kulai districts.
“I hope all flood victims will continue to be strong and patient, especially those preparing for Aidilfitri,” Ahmad Zahid, who is also National Disaster Management Committee chairman said in a statement today.
NADMA Disaster Control Centre reported that as of noon today, the number of flood victims evacuated to relief centres in Johor has surged to 10,851 from only 753 yesterday.
Ahmad Zahid said the State Disaster Management Committee (JPBN) had mobilised its assets to ensure that search and rescue operations for victims could be carried out as efficiently as possible.
“A total of 8,289 personnel, with 206 boats, 157 SUVs/vans, 91 lorries, 15 ambulances, two aircraft and a drone have been mobilised or placed on standby for the flood operations in Johor.
“NADMA has also issued Disaster Operations Preparedness Notices on March 18, 19, and 21 to the State and District Disaster Management Committees following continuous rain warnings from the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MET Malaysia).
“These notices aim to enhance preparedness in dealing with potential disasters in high-risk areas,” he said.
Ahmad Zahid also said that the country is expected to enter the monsoon transition phase, during which conditions may encourage the formation of thunderclouds, potentially leading to heavy rain accompanied by strong winds in short periods.
“What concerns us is that this phenomenon could cause flash floods and damage to fragile structures,” he remarked.
The deputy prime minister also expressed his gratitude to all parties and the local community who worked tirelessly to help the flood victims and provided assistance and contributions in various forms to ease the burden of the victims.
“This also includes non-governmental organisations (NGOs) under RakanNADMA such as the Pertubuhan Ihsan Johor and Southern Volunteers who have mobilised 200 volunteers who are focusing on immediate food aid and other assistance totalling RM175,000,” he said.
To reduce the risk of loss of life due to this weather phenomenon, Ahmad Zahid said he had instructed all authorities including district offices and response agencies to closely monitor high-risk areas.
“I would also like to advise the public to remain vigilant and stay alert to the current weather changes before planning any activities, especially with the upcoming festive season,” he added.
JOHOR BAHRU - Hujan lebat berterusan selama dua hari menyebabkan penduduk Kampung Pasir Tebrau, di sini, terpaksa berpindah ke pusat pemindahan sementara (PPS) di Sekolah Kebangsaan Bukit Mutiara, pada Khamis.
Suri rumah, Zaleha Bachok, 52, berkata, paras air mula naik pada pagi tadi selepas hujan sepanjang malam, malah rumahnya yang terletak di kawasan tinggi turut dimasuki air.
"Di depan rumah, air sudah paras pinggang, kira-kira satu meter. Saya terpaksa berpindah pagi tadi. Malam semalam pun kami berbuka puasa di luar kerana PPS belum dibuka.
"Sepanjang 29 tahun tinggal di sini, ini banjir paling teruk pernah terjadi. Tapi apa boleh buat, kami reda kerana menetap di kawasan rendah," katanya kepada Sinar Harian.
Sementara itu, seorang lagi penduduk, Hairul Azim Jasmin, 21, berkata, kawasan yang terjejas melibatkan 54 rumah dengan 105 keluarga, termasuk warga emas dan kanak-kanak.
Menurutnya, keadaan semakin memburuk sejak semalam dan air sempat surut tengah hari tadi, namun kembali naik pagi Khamis hingga menenggelamkan rumah penduduk.
"Waktu malam keadaan sudah teruk, tetapi sekitar tengah hari sempat surut. Pagi tadi hujan turun lagi dan air naik semula.
"Setakat ini semua penduduk sudah dipindahkan ke PPS, kecuali satu keluarga yang sedang dibantu pihak bomba," katanya.
Tambahnya, kebiasaannya jika kampung lain sudah banjir, Kampung Pasir Tebrau hanya akan dinaiki air dalam tempoh dua hingga tiga hari kemudian.
"Tapi kali ini air naik mendadak, mungkin sebab sungai semakin cetek dan tiada pembinaan tebing," katanya.
Hairul Azim berkata, kejadian banjir kali ini hampir sama dengan tahun lalu yang berlaku sekitar Februari atau Mac, namun lebih mencabar kerana penduduk sedang berpuasa dan bakal menyambut Aidilfitri.
Menurutnya, semua penduduk yang terjejas telah dipindahkan ke PPS sementara menunggu keadaan kembali pulih.
"Segala persiapan Hari Raya Aidilfitri yang telah dibeli, termasuk pakaian raya, langsir dan televisyen baharu, tidak dapat diselamatkan.
"Kami hanya sempat menyelamatkan dokumen penting sahaja," ujarnya.
JOHOR BARU: Kampung Pasir Tebrau residents here are once again grappling with severe floods, which have become an annual disaster.
The housing estate often floods after downpours, making it the worst-hit village in the state capital.
Hairul Azim Jasmin, 21, described this year's flood as one of the worst, which was made even more devastating by its timing as it happened during Ramadan and just before Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
"All our Raya preparations, from new clothes and curtains to a recently bought television, are gone," said the private sector worker.
He managed to salvage some important documents before being evacuated.
Having lived in the flood-prone village since birth, Hairul said the situation is likely to persist unless river deepening and embankment projects are carried out.
"We've been informed by Drainage and Irrigation Department officers and the assemblyman's office that if it rains for two to three days, flooding is inevitable.
"This is because the river is getting shallower, and no embankments have been built."
The village, home to 105 families and 54 houses, has seen recurring floods in recent years, with the 2023 flood causing comparable destruction.
For Zaleha Bachok, 52, floodwaters reached chest level despite her home being on higher ground.
She was forced to evacuate last night to ensure the safety of her child with disabilities.
"We waded through the floodwaters, but the relief centre had not yet opened, so we had to break our fast elsewhere."
As the situation worsened, authorities ordered all residents to evacuate.
Zaleha, who has lived in the housing estate for 29 years, said most residents have come to accept the floods as an unavoidable part of life.
"We live in a flood-prone area, so we are always prepared.
"We have yet to do any Raya shopping, and we were unable to save anything from our home."
These recurring floods highlight the need for long-term solutions, with residents calling for action to prevent another disastrous start to the new year.