Kota Kinabalu: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Friday ordered an accelerated recovery plan for Sabah’s flood and landslide-hit areas, saying the scale of destruction was “not a normal situation” and could not be handled through routine procedures.
Anwar, who on Monday announced an immediate RM10 million allocation through the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) for victims, flew into Kota Kinabalu for a half-day working visit with Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor to assess the damage first-hand.
“Now, we only assist the families with food, drinks and shelter. But, we are seeing some needs that will definitely require more allocations after the initial flood relief.
However, the total estimated cost (of infrastructure restoration allocations) required has not yet been submitted,” he said.
“Thank you to the Chief Minister (Hajiji) and the Sabah government for swiftly carrying out these efforts,” he said.
According to the Sabah State Disaster Management Committee, a total of 2,256 people from 710 families are sheltering at temporary relief centres.
The landslides in the state have so far claimed 13 lives, while one died due to floods.
His visit began at the landslide-stricken Country Heights in Penampang, before proceeding to the Temporary Evacuation Centre (PPS) at Sekolah Kebangsaan St Paul in Kolopis and the PPS in Kampung Sarapung, where he spoke with evacuees about their immediate concerns.
The Prime Minister then inspected the landslide-hit Institute of Teacher Education (IPGM) Gaya Campus, which has sparked serious safety and infrastructure worries. A new building would be constructed.
Speaking to the media, he said initial assistance was directed at food, shelter and basic relief, while the next phase would focus on rebuilding essential infrastructure.
“So far, RM10 million has been allocated, but we see additional needs of around RM1.5 million to RM3,000,000 that can be coordinated between the State and Federal Governments.
“What matters most is not just cash assistance, but ensuring proper housing, basic facilities and schools for the children are restored quickly,” he said.
On the IPGM issue, he said Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek had tabled a preliminary report to Cabinet last week and a final report was pending.
“I have asked for everything to be expedited. If we follow the normal process, it will take far too long.”Anwar praised the efforts of State and Federal agencies, including power and rescue crews, for working tirelessly.
“The people are proud of these sacrifices,” he said.
He arrived at Terminal Two of Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) at 2.15pm and was welcomed by Hajiji and state leaders before receiving a disaster briefing from State Secretary Datuk Seri Safar Untong, who is also State Disaster Management Committee Chairman.