KOTA KINABALU: With continuous heavy rain lashing Sabah and hundreds already evacuated, all district disaster committees have been ordered to swing into action immediately.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor (pic) said measures must be put in place to ensure all districts, especially flood-prone areas, are prepared to coordinate with various agencies for quick mobilisation in the event of an emergency.
He said the state government was concerned about the flooding and landslide situation.
“I have instructed all district disaster committees to be activated so that every action can be coordinated and the affected people receive appropriate protection and assistance.
“With the activation of the committees, any form of assistance can be mobilised quickly, including the rescue, evacuation of victims, and provision of basic needs at temporary evacuation centres,” he said in a statement yesterday.
As of noon Friday, 379 victims from 123 families had been evacuated to several relief centres in Beaufort and Penampang.
In Beaufort, 149 victims from 53 families were housed at the Selagon PPS.
In Penampang, 230 victims from 70 families were moved to three centres – 83 at Penampang Sports Complex, 50 at SK St Paul Kolopis and 97 at Dewan Huguan Siou.
The victims comprised 127 men, 139 women and 113 children and infants.
Hajiji urged those living in high-risk areas to be vigilant with the continuous rain and to evacuate immediately when instructed by the authorities.
“Do not take the risk of being in danger zones. Family safety must be prioritised.
“The government will ensure that food, logistics and other necessities continue to be distributed to all victims,” he added.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim also urged residents in flood-prone areas of Sabah to stay vigilant and follow evacuation orders if the situation worsens.
He called on the authorities to step up rescue efforts and provide basic necessities.
