Kota Kinabalu: The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) Sabah Branch has raised more than RM80,000 in just six days to assist flood victims across the state.
The campaign, supported by Persatuan Perubatan Desa Sabah (Perdesa) and Universiti Malaysia Sabah’s Four Wheel Drive Volunteer Club, benefitted over 500 families affected in Penampang, Papar and Membakut.
Earlier in Facebook post on Tuesday, MMA Sabah Chairman Dr Brandon Patrick Senagang said the overwhelming response reflected the generosity of Malaysians from all walks of life.
“Your contributions enabled us to provide food, toiletries, mattresses, diapers, cleaning items and much more,” he said.
The convoy led by him and MMA SCHOMOS Representative Dr Francesca Primus Chew.
The aid was delivered through a 20-vehicle convoy, including lorries and vans, to three main Temporary Evacuation Centres (PPS) and nearby villages: PPS St. Paul Kolopis in Penampang (including Kg Sarapung), PPS Dewan Masyarakat Papar, and PPS Dewan Kesenian Islam Membakut.
Altogether, 474 victims received relief packs, including adults, children and babies. Many had been forced to leave their homes with little more than the clothes on their backs.
Each pack contained essentials such as rice, cooking oil, dry and instant noodles, canned sardines, biscuits, baby formula, bottled water, as well as bedding, blankets, towels, diapers, mosquito repellent and basic medical supplies.
Dr Brandon said although donations for the campaign have now been closed, relief work will continue.
“In the coming days and weeks, we will channel support to families still recovering from the floods. Our focus will be on helping them clean their homes and get back on their feet,” he said.
He said the mission was made possible through the dedication of 34 volunteers, comprising doctors, healthcare professionals and community members.
MMA Sabah expressed its gratitude to all sponsors, donors and partners who contributed to the campaign.
“Thank you, everyone,” Dr Brandon said.
