Dr Sim (centre) in a group photo with participants. – Sarawak Public Communications Unit photo

KUCHING (Feb 16): Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has attributed the cause of the recent severe floods that hit Bintulu to climate change

The Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government said climate change can affect weather patterns, causing people to experience either warmer or colder conditions.

“The severe floods that happened in Bintulu recently are a clear indication of the effects of climate change.

“Sarawak is estimated to have an average rainfall of around 3,000 millimetres (mm) per year, but recently Bintulu received as much as 900mm of rainfall in a single day.

“This extraordinary amount of rainfall had a big impact on the local population,” he said during the flag-off ceremony for the Climate Run 2025 and Electrical and Electronic Waste Collection at the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) compound here today.

Dr Sim urged the community to take climate change issues seriously and play their part in ensuring that Sarawak can achieve its net zero carbon emissions target.

He said concerted efforts from everyone would help better address climate change and encourage more individuals take good care of the environment they live in.

He also urged the people to lead a healthy lifestyle and maintain close social relationships within the community for enhanced well-being.

According to him, a balanced diet and an active lifestyle, such as having regular workouts, would be beneficial for everyone

He said taking part in events like running not only promotes physical health but also fosters the spirit of togetherness.

“We want everyone to stay healthy because when you are healthy, you may be one of the contributors of ideas for Sarawak’s progress.

“The healthier you are, the more and better you can serve the state and yourself. We don’t want you to go back and forth to the hospital for this isn’t a good thing,” he said.