Flood relief operations centralised at KDCA Paitan, says Sugut rep

PAITAN (Feb 28): Flood relief operations in the Sugut and Paitan areas have been centralised at KDCA Paitan, which has been designated as the main distribution hub for essential supplies to affected residents.

Sugut assemblyman Datuk James Ratib said his service centre has been coordinating the distribution of food aid, second-hand clothing and new clothing to ensure the basic needs of flood victims continue to be met.

“The distribution hub at KDCA Paitan allows assistance to be organised in a more structured and systematic manner before being channelled to villages and temporary evacuation centres (PPS). This is crucial to ensure no victims are left out,” he said.

James, who is state Minister of Education, Science and Technology and Innovation, said that since the first day of the disaster — triggered by continuous heavy rainfall that cut off several routes and forced hundreds to evacuate — he has been on the ground personally leading relief efforts.

He added that close cooperation with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) and the Civil Defence Force (APM) has ensured evacuation and aid distribution are carried out smoothly and efficiently.

To strengthen coordination, James said four Starlink devices have been delivered to flood-affected areas to provide temporary internet connectivity, supporting communication between rescue teams, operations centres and PPS, as well as enabling victims to stay in touch with their families.

“These temporary internet connections are vital, especially in cut-off areas, to ensure rescue and relief operations can proceed without disruption,” he said.

James also conducted site visits to several affected villages to assess damage to road infrastructure and public facilities, with special attention given to schools to enable recovery efforts to begin promptly once floodwaters recede.

“The welfare and safety of the people remain our top priority. All relevant machinery has been instructed to stay on the ground to monitor the situation and ensure assistance reaches every victim, regardless of location,” he said.

He expressed appreciation to government agencies, security forces, volunteers and local communities for their strong commitment and cooperation throughout the flood relief operations, describing multi-agency collaboration as key to effective evacuation, rescue and post-flood recovery efforts.