PUTATAN: The Government is actively channelling aid to flood and landslide victims in seven districts in Sabah through the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) and the State Disaster Committee.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said assistance had been distributed to disaster committees at State and district levels, while the list of destroyed and damaged houses is being reviewed for rebuilding and repair purposes.
“Houses that are damaged but still habitable will be coordinated by GiatMara for rewiring works to enable the restoration of electricity supply.
“At the same time, the mobilisation of officers and assets from various agencies is also being carried out in all affected districts,” he said after visiting the Temporary Evacuation Centre (PPS) at Dewan Taman Sri Keramat here Wednesday.
Zahid, who is also Chairman of the Central Disaster Management Committee, reminded residents to comply with evacuation orders should they be issued by the authorities, following forecasts of strong wind surges in the coming days.
“We are reviewing the list of victims who have relocated and those who have not. Some chose to remain in their homes due to fears of losing their belongings. Therefore, I hope the community can provide moral support to them,” he explained.
He also urged non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to step forward to assist victims, while informing that the Prime Minister is scheduled to visit Penampang this Friday.
Zahid said that in addition to his visits to three affected districts on Wednesday and Thursday, he would return on Saturday to coordinate clean-up efforts with NGO assistance, including the provision of equipment such as water jets and water tankers.
“I am satisfied with the coordination among all parties, including Nadma, the State and District Disaster Committees, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), as well as other government departments and agencies who are working tirelessly on the ground,” he said.
He stressed that the welfare of victims is also being prioritised, including the provision of activities for children at the PPS and healthcare for senior citizens and patients.
Also present was the Sabah State Disaster Committee (JPBN) Chairman Datuk Seri Sr Safar Untong.
