PAPAR, Sept 18 (Bernama) — The National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) will build a permanent evacuation centre (PPK) in Bongawan this year to assist and relocate residents affected by disasters, particularly floods.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the matter will be discussed in greater detail, especially on identifying a suitable site, together with stakeholders, including the Sabah state secretary.
“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 such as toilets and bathrooms but also cooking areas for volunteers under the Social Welfare Department to prepare meals,” he told reporters here today.
Earlier, Ahmad 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.
Ahmad Zahid said funding has been allocated for the Bongawan PPK project and the government will expedite its construction in line with established procedures and regulations.
He said 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 stands ready to assist 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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