Permanent flood evacuation centre to be built in Bongawan - DPM

The National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) will build a permanent evacuation centre (PPK) in Bongawan on Sabah’s west coast this year.

This is to assist and relocate residents affected by disasters, particularly floods.

Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the matter will be discussed in greater detail with stakeholders, including the Sabah state secretary, especially on identifying a suitable site.

“I visited seven temporary evacuation centres (PPS) and found that the need for a PPK in Bongawan is urgent as the area is frequently hit by floods.

“We will provide facilities not only toilets and bathrooms but also cooking areas for volunteers under the Social Welfare Department to prepare meals,” he told reporters in Papar today.

Earlier, Zahid visited and extended condolences to those affected by the landslide in Kampung Mook, Kinarut, which claimed the lives of Emily Johnny, 38, and her son Xarell Myre Aristothle, 11, on Sept 15.

Today, he also visited flood and landslide victims in several districts, including Papar, Membakut, and Bongawan.

He said funding has been allocated for the Bongawan PPK project, and the government will expedite its construction in line with established procedures and regulations.

Zahid added that this will be Sabah’s second PPK, after the Selagon PPK in Beaufort, which began operations last year, and that the centre will also function as a community activity hub during non-flood seasons.

“We already have the model in Selagon and may further improve Bongawan’s centre in terms of size and facilities. We also want similar centres built in other districts in Sabah, depending on allocations from the Finance Ministry,” he said.

The deputy prime minister also said the government is ready to help flood and landslide victims who lost their homes, either by building new houses or repairing existing ones.

“On behalf of the government, I extend my condolences to the families of the landslide victims. I thank the state government, NGOs, and all agencies for their swift efforts in rescuing and assisting those affected,” he added.

- Bernama

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