KOTA KINABALU: First Admiral Datuk Che Engku Suhaimi Che Engku Daik, the director of the Sabah and Labuan Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA), has reminded Sabah’s maritime communities to exercise caution during the northeast monsoon season. This is because the strong winds during this period can lead to high waves and choppy seas in the South China Sea, posing a danger to small boats, sea recreation, and sports activities, among others.
Che Engku also advised coastal communities to wear safety jackets and bring personal locator beacons when going out to sea. Additionally, they should inform family members or friends of their purpose and location at sea. It is important for people to ensure that their boats are in a safe and good condition before embarking on any sea activity.
Firemen helping a senior citizen during the rescue operation Kampung Kabatu, Klias.
Che Engku encouraged the public to report any emergency incidents at sea to the Sabah and Labuan MMEA operations centre at 088-387774 or the Malaysian Emergency Response Service (MERS) 999 number. According to the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), the northeast monsoon season is expected to start from Saturday (Nov 11) until next March.
Meanwhile, due to a flood at Kampung Kabatu in Klias, about 100km southwest of the Sabah capital, three families had to be evacuated to temporary shelters on Thursday. According to a Fire and Rescue Department spokesman, 15 flood victims, including six children and a baby, have been moved to the Kampung Kibatu village development and security committee house using a boat and four-wheel drive vehicle. As the water level is still rising, the situation is being closely monitored even though the operation ended at 8.41am.
