KOTA KINABALU, Sept 15 (Bernama) — Two have died in the Kampung Mook landslide in Papar, Sabah, according to Kota Kinabalu Fire and Rescue station. Parts of the state have been stricken with floods and landslides following heavy rains over the past few days, with more than 400 people currently taking shelter in relief centres.
Earlier today, the Sabah government cancelled the state-level Malaysia Day celebration scheduled to take place at Padang Merdeka here tomorrow night in light of the major disaster currently affecting the state.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the disaster, caused by continuous heavy rain, has impacted at least seven districts.
He said the immediate priority of the state government is to manage the crisis, coordinate recovery efforts, and ensure swift rescue operations for affected communities.
“I have informed Sabah Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman regarding this matter.
“In these difficult times, the well-being, welfare and safety of the people remain paramount. All focus and resources must be channelled towards those affected,” he said in a statement today.
Hajiji said he has also instructed the Sabah State Disaster Management Committee (JPBN) to remain on full alert and ready to take immediate action as the on-ground situation continues to evolve with the prolonged bad weather.
He said Sabah JPBN, chaired by State Secretary Datuk Seri Safar Untong, is convening to monitor developments and coordinate immediate response measures in the affected districts.
“The public is urged to remain vigilant, heed safety advisories and fully cooperate with rescue teams as operations are being stepped up across the state,” he said.
–BERNAMA