KOTA KINABALU (Sept 10): Sixty-four families from eight villages in Beaufort were evacuated from their homes following flood in the area since yesterday.

A statement from the Sabah State Disaster Management Committee said 199 people from 64 families are currently taking shelter at the temporary evacuation centres (PPS) Selangon. There are 37 men, 66 women, 50 boys and 64 girls.

Continuous monitoring of the flood situation is ongoing which involves the Malaysia Civil Defence Department (APM), the Fire and Rescue Department and other agencies.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey G. Kitingan went to the ground to assist communities cut off by recent floods in Tambunan and Keningau.

In Kampung Widu and Kampung Piolungan, where torrential floodwaters destroyed a main bridge, Jeffrey – who is also Tambunan assemblyman and Keningau Member of Parliament – visited the affected areas with district officials, the Public Works Department (JKR), Civil Defence Force (APM), welfare officers, STAR Sabah divisional leaders and village heads.

The visit was not only to assess damage but also to deliver immediate relief and moral support to hundreds of residents who lost access. Among the assistance provided were petrol and diesel for stranded vehicles, basic necessities for affected families, transport for patients needing hospital care, and special incentives for students forced to travel under difficult conditions.

Jeffrey also recorded his appreciation to caring parties, including Kim Teck Cheong Group through its executive director Datuk Dexter Lau, for their contributions to the villagers.

“I hope all this assistance will ease the burden of our people who have been affected. The presence of leaders by the side of the people in difficult times is the true test of leadership. I also pray that the process of repairing the bridge will go smoothly for the well-being of all,” he said.

The visit ended with the handing over of food baskets and basic necessities.

In Keningau, Jeffrey was joined by Dato’ Mohd Ishak Datuk Ayub, deputy coordinator of STAR Sabah P.180 Keningau, to inspect damage at Gereja Betani in flood-hit Kampung Labak.