Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called on the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), serving as the secretariat for the Central Disaster Management Committee (JPBP), to maintain rigorous oversight of the preparedness levels of all agencies involved in disaster response. This directive comes as Sabah and Sarawak face severe flooding, with thousands displaced and significant damage reported across multiple districts.
Ahmad Zahid, who also chairs the JPBP, expressed his satisfaction with the effective coordination demonstrated by the District Disaster Management Committees (JPBD) and State Disaster Management Committees (JPBN) in both states. He emphasized the importance of early preparations and seamless collaboration among agencies to mitigate the impact of disasters. "Through proactive planning and coordination, the government has allocated initial funds to all states and response agencies for operations during the 2024/2025 Northeast Monsoon season (MTL). This ensures that JPBD and JPBN can carry out their duties in an organized and efficient manner," he stated.
The Deputy Prime Minister also highlighted the need for temporary evacuation centers (PPS) to be equipped with adequate basic facilities to accommodate flood victims comfortably. "It is crucial that these centers are well-prepared to provide shelter, food, and other necessities to those affected," he added. Furthermore, Ahmad Zahid urged NADMA to expedite the registration and verification process for victims to prevent delays in disbursing the Bantuan Wang Ihsan (BWI) cash assistance. The Federal Government has pledged RM1,000 in aid to each head of household (KIR) affected by the floods and relocated to PPS, subject to NADMA's specified conditions.
According to the National Disaster Control Centre (NDCC) portal, as of 4:45 PM, 22 districts across Sabah and Sarawak have been impacted by the floods, displacing 15,004 individuals who are now sheltered in 85 PPS. In Sarawak, the worst-hit districts include Bintulu, with 4,811 victims, Serian with 2,597, and Selangau with 1,056, bringing the state's total to 13,302 victims. In Sabah, five districts—Pitas, Lahad Datu, Paitan, Beaufort, and Beluran—have reported 1,702 victims housed in 14 PPS. Earlier, Kota Marudu, Kota Belud, and Telupid were declared flood-free, allowing residents to return home.
Ahmad Zahid took to Facebook to express his gratitude to all parties involved in the disaster response, including government agencies, security personnel, medical staff, volunteers, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and local communities. He praised their swift and coordinated efforts, noting that over 23,000 personnel in Sarawak and more than 14,000 in Sabah were mobilized, along with sufficient assets for on-ground operations. "Their unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of flood victims is deeply appreciated," he said.
The Deputy Prime Minister also underscored the importance of early warnings issued by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) and NADMA, which played a critical role in enhancing preparedness at all levels. He reminded residents of Sabah and Sarawak to remain vigilant, particularly in light of the weather forecast predicting a significant monsoon surge from February 4 to 7. "This surge has the potential to cause continuous heavy rainfall in both states, accompanied by strong winds and rough seas in the South China Sea," he cautioned.
In addition to government efforts, Ahmad Zahid urged the public to prioritize safety by preparing emergency kits, heeding evacuation orders, and avoiding floodwaters. "Children should never play in floodwaters, and families must move to higher ground when instructed," he advised. The Deputy Prime Minister's call to action reflects the government's commitment to minimizing the impact of natural disasters and ensuring the welfare of affected communities.
As the flood situation continues to evolve, the collaborative efforts of federal and state agencies, alongside the resilience of local communities, remain pivotal in addressing the challenges posed by the Northeast Monsoon season. With early warnings, efficient coordination, and timely aid distribution, the government aims to safeguard lives and livelihoods while reinforcing the nation's disaster response capabilities.
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