Kota Kinabalu: Sabah can build a stronger disaster response system but only if those in charge are willing to listen to the people on the ground, according to former Kapayan Assemblywoman Datuk Jannie Lasimbang.
“What is needed is greater attention to feedback from field teams and a willingness to adapt strategies based on local needs,” the former State Assistant Law and Native Affairs Minister said in a statement.
“Ground-informed planning will ultimately ensure faster aid delivery and better protection for communities during times of crisis,” she said following a recent flood relief mission her team carried out in Pitas through the HeroMeals food distribution programme.
While food assistance was successfully delivered to affected families during the Pitas mission, the team noted that the boats being used to deliver aid in the impacted area were simply the wrong ones for the job.
“Many flood-affected locations in Pitas are situated in hilly terrain with narrow access routes and shallow waterways. The use of fibreglass boats was found to be less practical in certain areas due to their weight and limited manoeuvrability,” she said.
She pointed out that the mismatch does not just slow down food deliveries but it could cost lives.
“This slowed the delivery of aid and may also affect the efficiency of rescue operations during emergencies where response time is critical.
“In areas such as Pitas, lighter and more manoeuvrable inflatable boats may be better suited for navigating shallow and winding waterways,” she said.
She urged the government to undertake more thorough local assessments before making procurement and deployment decisions.
“Public funds allocated for disaster preparedness must translate into practical and effective solutions on the ground,” she said, pointing out that one approach does not mean it can work across Sabah.
“Sabah’s districts differ significantly in terrain and accessibility and disaster management cannot rely on a one-size-fits-all approach. Equipment and logistical planning must reflect actual field conditions,” she said.
Additionally, she said village heads and local community committees remain some of the most valuable assets in any flood response.
“These grassroots networks provide real-time information on affected populations and local conditions, enabling more coordinated and efficient responses,” she said.
She also called for disaster preparedness to be treated as a year-round commitment, not something dusted off only when floods arrive.
“Disaster preparedness must be viewed as a continuous responsibility rather than a seasonal response. It requires ongoing assessment, appropriate investment in suitable equipment, and coordination systems that extend to the village level,” she said.