Firemen carrying a child during the flood rescue operation Kampung Kabatu, Klias.
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s maritime communities have been reminded to be extra careful while carrying out any sea activity during the northeast monsoon season.
Sabah and Labuan Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) director First Admiral Datuk Che Engku Suhaimi Che Engku Daik said during this period, strong winds are expected to cause high waves and choppy seas at the South China Sea that could be dangerous to small boats, sea recreation and sports, among others.
“The coastal communities are reminded to wear safety jackets and also to bring personal locator beacons (when going out to sea),” he said in a statement here on Thursday (Nov 9).
“They must also inform their family members or friends of their purpose and location at sea,” Che Engku added.
He said the people must also ensure their boats were in safe and good condition before setting off to sea.
Firemen helping a senior citizen during the rescue operation Kampung Kabatu, Klias.
He urged the public to report any emergency incidents at sea to the Sabah and Labuan MMEA operations centre at 088-387774 or the Malaysian Emergency Response Service (MERS) 999 number.
The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) forecast the northeast monsoon season to start from Saturday (Nov 11) until next March.
Meanwhile, three families had to be evacuated to temporary shelters after a flood at Kampung Kabatu in Klias, about 100km southwest of the Sabah capital on Thursday.
A Fire and Rescue Department spokesman said, so far, 15 flood victims have been transferred to safer locations following a distress call at 6.27am.
“The victims also involved six children and a baby.
“They have been moved to the Kampung Kibatu village development and security committee house using our boat and four-wheel drive vehicle.
“The operation ended at 8.41am but we are still monitoring the situation as the water level is still rising,” he said.
