Sabah's Chief Minister emphasizes unity amidst floods and landslides, emphasizing that welfare concerns surpass political differences
In the face of the ongoing landslide and flood situation in Sabah, Malaysia, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has called for all parties to put aside their differences and focus on restoring lives and livelihoods.
The state and federal governments are working together to address the calamity, with Hajiji emphasizing that political issues, such as dissolving the Sabah State Assembly or the possibility of state elections, should not take precedence over the welfare of the affected people.
Thirteen people have tragically lost their lives in landslides across Sabah since last Friday, and the number of flood victims has been steadily rising. Yesterday, the number of flood victims was 2,813 from 752 families. As of 8 am today, this number has risen to 2,897 people from 813 families across 107 villages.
Yayasan Sabah, a foundation, is providing RM30,000 for each family whose house was destroyed in the landslide, with RM10,000 also being provided for the next of kin of those who lost their lives. RM1,000 in compassionate cash aid has also been distributed to flood victims in temporary shelters.
Hajiji visited Kampung Mook to meet the family of landslide victims Emily Johnny and her son Xarell Myre Aristothle. During his visit, he was visibly moved by the plight of the grieving families.
The Chief Minister has urged everyone to not be distracted by politics for now, with the priority being to support the affected people. He emphasized that all parties, including government agencies, should be mobilized to extend help according to the urgency and needs of the situation.
Hajiji does not want to think about dissolution at this time, and he is committed to ensuring that the necessary aid is provided to those in need as quickly and efficiently as possible. It is a time for unity and compassion, and Hajiji's call for all parties to come together in aid of the affected people is a reminder of the importance of putting the welfare of the community above political differences.
