Hilmy speaks to reporters during his visit to the PPS at Surau Ar Rahman, Kampung Sungai Batu.

KUCHING (Jan 2): The Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) will conduct a survey to address flooding issues in Sungai Batu here.

Kuching North Datuk Bandar Dato Hilmy Othman said the survey will be carried out following feedback from community leaders, which was gathered during his visit to the temporary evacuation centre (PPS) at Surau Ar Rahman, Kampung Sungai Batu, on New Year’s Day.

According to a Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) report, Hilmy said he will raise the matter with the Sarawak State Cabinet so that the survey can be jointly undertaken by the relevant agencies.

He said DBKU looks forward to collaborating with the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) to address the flooding problems in the area.

He also expressed appreciation to local leaders for voicing their concerns and offering suggestions to help ease the burden faced by residents affected by floods.

Meanwhile, Hilmy said an additional PPS will be set up in Sungai Lumut if the centre at Surau Ar Rahman, which currently houses 65 flood victims, reaches full capacity.

He said the district office will issue further instructions should there be a need to transfer some victims from Surau Ar Rahman to the new centre.

The Sungai Lumut PPS, he added, is capable of accommodating more than 100 affected individuals.

“If the situation continues to worsen, all flood victims may be housed at the Sungai Lumut evacuation centre under the management of the district office,” he said.

Hilmy also advised residents in the affected areas to remain vigilant and to comply immediately with evacuation orders if issued.

During the visit, he distributed basic food assistance to flood victims at the Surau Ar Rahman PPS.