SIPITANG: District Officer Abd Karim AM Zahari declared Sipitang a natural disaster area and urged security agencies to be on standby for rescue operations. He is Chairman of the District Disaster Management Committee (JPBD).
The declaration follows continuous heavy rainfall lasting more than six hours since Thursday evening, which caused several rivers to overflow, leading to flooding.
According to a report from the Sabah Department of Irrigation and Drainage (JPS), the water level at Sungai Mengalong has reached a critical level of 12.551 metres, exceeding the danger threshold of 12 metres.
The water level at Sungai Kampung Melalia remains at a warning level of 10.160 metres (the danger threshold set at 12 metres), as reported by the Water Level Monitoring Station at Kampung Melalia.
As a precautionary measure, the Multipurpose Hall has been activated as a Temporary Evacuation Centre (PPS), and those in need of assistance are urged to contact the rescue teams.
Abd Karim advised residents in low-lying areas to remain vigilant as floods can pose significant risks.
“To the residents of Kampung Pantai and Sindumin, the major flooding of Sungai Muaya and Mendulong is already occurring.
“If Sungai Mengalong also overflows, this area will certainly experience severe flooding,” he said.
He also advised motorists to be extra cautious as several bridges, including the Sungai Muaya Bridge, have been submerged. Among the affected areas are Kampung Pantai, Kampung Seri Menanti, Jalan Sindumin, Sindumin Baru and several other villages.
Abd Karim also warned residents not to attempt to cross flooded rivers, as the strong currents could sweep away vehicles.
The evacuation of students from SMK Sindumin proceeded smoothly, with teachers, particularly those from the School Safety and Disaster Committee, assisting in the process.
Sipitang Fire and Rescue Station Chief Calvin Joe Jeafery also advised residents to exercise extreme caution.
“Never enter or swim in floodwaters, especially children, as hidden dangers such as snakes, scorpions and even crocodiles may be lurking in the waters,” he said.
He reminded residents to store important documents in waterproof containers and to be prepared for evacuation if instructed.
Those in need of emergency assistance, they can contact the Sipitang Fire and Rescue Station at 087-821444, the Sindumin Police Station at 087-811200, or the Sipitang Police Station at 087-821222.
Beaufort Fire and Rescue Station Chief Muhammad Hasbullah Nenggok said water levels in the district are also rising due to flooding in Keningau and Tenom.
He said the current flood level has exceeded the danger threshold, rising from 8.70 metres to 8.99 metres, and all personnel and logistics are on standby to assist flood victims.
For any emergencies, the public can contact the Beaufort Fire and Rescue Station at 087-212025 or the emergency hotline at 019-8097625.
