SANDAKAN, Sept 19 — The Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) is on high alert for possible strong winds along the Sabah east coast.
Sandakan APM officer Captain (PA) Sulaiman Salama said their monitoring will focus on coastal areas and seaside villages in the event of strong winds.
“We are ready for any eventuality (that may arise) in the coming days as forecasted.
“For instance, yesterday, although it rained, it was only for a short period and was not accompanied by strong winds. Nevertheless, we must remain cautious and prepared,” he told Bernama.
He was commenting on the call by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, urging all parties to be prepared for potential strong winds on Sabah’s east coast, especially in the Sandakan and Lahad Datu districts, after the phenomenon struck the state’s west coast.
Sulaiman reminded residents living along the coast and seaside areas to stay vigilant about weather changes. If evacuation is necessary, they should promptly notify the authorities to prevent any incidents from occurring.
Sandakan MP Vivian Wong Shir Yee advised residents in coastal areas, especially in Kampung Sim Sim, Kampung Forest, and Kampung Mangkalinau, to be vigilant for possible strong winds.
“I would like to advise Sandakan residents to stay cautious and carry out maintenance on old zinc roofs by reinforcing them with additional nails so they are more secure.
“When strong winds occur, the risk will not be as severe. However, now we cannot predict when disasters will strike or when phenomena like high tides will happen, so we must always be vigilant.
“This is a change in weather patterns that no one can predict. But since information indicates that strong winds may reach the east coast, I urge all residents to remain cautious,” she said.
Wong added that authorities, including the Sandakan Municipal Council, APM, Royal Malaysia Police, and Fire and Rescue Department, must also be prepared for any eventuality. — Bernama
