KUCHING, Feb 21 — The Social Welfare Department (JKM) has put 5,744 volunteers and 976 Psychological Support Team (PST) members on standby nationwide following unpredictable weather caused by the northeast monsoon, which has increased flood risks.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the current priority is to ensure readiness in several key areas, including online registration of victims, distribution of essential items and food supplies, health and hygiene management, security, and activities at evacuation centres nationwide.
“These preparations are not only for disaster management but also to provide mental health support to affected communities.
“For aid registration, if there are areas without internet access, the district office will step in to help ensure victims receive the appropriate assistance,” she said after handing out zakat and food baskets to asnaf in the Bako zone at the Kampung Selabat Multipurpose Hall today.
Commenting on the flood situation in Sabah, Nancy said the ministry is prepared for any eventuality following floods in several areas due to continuous rainfall.
She added that the focus is on front-line preparedness, especially in rural areas.
“So far, front-line stock is sufficient as various forms of aid have already been prepared,” she said, adding that the ministry is working closely with the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA).
She also said 4,785 JKM personnel have been deployed to affected locations in Sabah, and that each relief centre will have at least one counsellor to assist evacuees, particularly children.
The number of flood victims in Sabah rose to 3,685 people (1,593 families) as at 8am today, compared with 406 people (124 families) yesterday.
The Sabah State Disaster Management Committee secretariat in a statement said 18 relief centres are open in three districts — Kota Marudu, Pitas and Paitan — with 47 villages impacted, comprising 30 in Pitas, 12 in Kota Marudu, and five in Paitan.
The three districts were hit by floods at 6am yesterday following continuous rain over the past few days.
