Malaysia News Today - Breaking News, Politics, Economy, Sports & Technology

Limbang ups flood readiness in preparation for Northeast Monsoon

Full-scale emergency drill involving 25 agencies successfully conducted at Miri Airport

A full-scale emergency response exercise simulating an aircraft crash was conducted at Miri Airport, involving 25 agencies and 30 simulated passengers and crew. The drill aimed to test preparedness and coordination in a disaster scenario, including managing fatalities and injuries. While successful, minor shortcomings were identified for post-exercise review. Such drills are conducted annually to meet international aviation safety regulations.

Typhoon Ragasa slams into south China after killing 14 in Taiwan

Typhoon Ragasa slammed into Guangdong, China, with 145 km/h winds after leaving a trail of destruction in Taiwan, including at least 14 deaths due to a burst barrier lake. The typhoon caused widespread damage in Guangdong, with flying debris and ripped advertisements. Hong Kong experienced its strongest storm this year as Ragasa passed. Over 7,600 people were evacuated in Taiwan, and nearly 2.2 million in Guangdong. Businesses and schools were closed across southern China.

Massive sinkhole in Bangkok street forces evacuations

A large section of road collapsed in Bangkok, Thailand, near Vajira Hospital, creating a 50-meter deep hole. The collapse, likely caused by heavy rain and a leaking pipe eroding the earth beneath the road, also pulled down power lines and exposed a burst water pipe. Authorities evacuated the nearby police station and apartment buildings. No casualties were reported. The collapse is suspected to be linked to an under-construction subway station, and an investigation is underway.

Storms wreak havoc in Tinjar: longhouse roofs blown off, houses collapse

Strong winds damaged two longhouses in Tinjar, Baram, Sarawak, Malaysia, affecting 145 people. The first incident occurred at Long Jegan A on Monday, blowing off the roof of a 21-door longhouse and a church, with two houses collapsing completely. The second incident happened on Tuesday at Rumah Henry Gomes in Kampung Mission, Ulu Teru, where one unit's roof was blown off. Disaster management committees are assessing the damage and providing aid to the displaced residents.

Sabah Govt reviews insurance eligibility for 13 flood, landslide victims

Sabah Chief Minister Hajiji Noor announced a review to determine if the 13 victims of the recent flood and landslide disaster qualify for benefits under the Sabah People's Insurance Scheme. While the review is ongoing, the government has provided immediate assistance of RM20,000 to each bereaved family through the Sabah Welfare Foundation and the State Government. The insurance scheme, launched in May, covers approximately 2.7 million Sabah residents.

RM2.2 mln agrofood damaged by Sabah flood

Floods in Sabah, Malaysia, have caused an estimated RM2.2 million in damage to the agriculture and food security sector, according to Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu. The damage assessment covers padi, other crops like pineapples and vegetables, livestock, and fisheries. Over 250 farmers, breeders, fishermen, and entrepreneurs have been affected. The government has allocated RM25 million for disaster relief, with RM15.9 million already disbursed, including RM212,271 to several Sabah districts.

Air disaster drills at STOLports to enhance preparedness in Northern Sarawak

Sarawak is conducting air disaster preparedness drills at Short Take-Off and Landing (STOLport) airports in its northern region, including Miri, Lawas, Mulu, Bario, Marudi, Long Banga, and Long Akah. This initiative, led by the Miri Resident's Office and Malaysia Airports Sdn Bhd, aims to enhance emergency response capabilities in line with the planned expansion of Miri Airport. The drills, involving Airport Fire and Rescue Services (AFRS) and 20 other agencies, focus on improving inter-agency coordination and resource optimization.

MetMalaysia tests tsunami warning siren near Miri City Hall

The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) tested a tsunami warning siren near Miri City Hall as part of the Malaysian Tsunami Early Warning System (SAATNM). This 20-minute test involved one of three sirens installed in Miri; the others are located at Luak Esplanade and Lutong New World Mart. A smaller speaker was used to avoid public alarm. A further test is scheduled for Lutong on September 24th. The Luak Esplanade siren was recently upgraded to a 3km radius system.

Flood situation in Sabah improves, unchanged in Sarawak this afternoon

The flood situation in Sabah, Malaysia is improving, with the number of victims decreasing to 130 from 439 earlier in the day. Only two relief centers remain open in Penampang and Papar. Meanwhile, the flood situation in Sarawak remains unchanged, with 16 victims still sheltered in Miri. River levels in affected areas are showing a downward trend, and no new rainfall has been reported.

Rotary District 3310 brings relief to flood, landslide victims

Heavy floods and landslides in Penampang, Sabah, left many families without basic necessities. Rotary clubs, led by District 3310 and including RCKK Pearl, RC Penampang, RC KK South, and RC KK Likas Bay, collaborated to deliver 400 food packs to affected villages like Kg Sagumou Madsiang, Kg Tindai, and others. This collaborative effort provided crucial aid and emotional support to the devastated communities. While this assistance is significant, further support is still needed.

Marudi flood situation improves, evacuation centre remains open

The flood situation in Marudi, Malaysia is improving with receding water levels in affected areas. The temporary evacuation center at the Marudi Civic Centre remains open, housing 17 victims from Kampung Padang Kerbau, Kampung Cina, Kampung Dagang, and Kampung Narum. The Civil Defence Force continues monitoring the situation despite the improving weather.

MetMalaysia to test early warning tsunami system in Miri and Tumpat tomorrow

The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) will test the tsunami early warning sirens in Miri, Sarawak, and Tumpat, Kelantan, on September 22nd. The tests, part of the Site Acceptance Test (SAT) for the new system, will run from 9-11 am in Miri Central Park and 10 am-noon at Pantai Genting. The public is advised not to be alarmed by the siren sounds.

When Malaysia Day celebrations were cancelled

Heavy rainfall and landslides in Sabah, Malaysia, led to the cancellation of Malaysia Day celebrations and widespread flooding, impacting districts like Penampang, Papar, and Kota Belud. Over 400 people were evacuated, and at least 14 lives were lost. While the government provided immediate aid and deployed rescue teams, the focus shifted from festivities to survival and recovery. Affected residents expressed frustration and resignation as they dealt with the aftermath, facing damaged homes and limited resources even in relief centers.

Floods: 65 villages in Baram adversely affected, 16 evacuees placed at PPS in Marudi

Floods in Baram, Sarawak, have impacted 65 villages across Marudi, Beluru, and Telang Usan districts. 15 people are currently sheltered at the Marudi Civic Centre evacuation center. Deputy Minister Datu Dr Penguang Manggil assured continued government aid, including food and necessities. Over 1,140 food packs have been distributed to affected villagers, schools, and a health clinic in Marudi district. Distribution to nearly 8,000 affected families across Baram is underway. Floodwaters are receding slowly, but authorities continue to monitor the situation.

Sabah’s floods, Malaysia’s test of heart

Heavy, persistent rainfall in Sabah, Malaysia, has triggered devastating landslides and floods, claiming at least 13 lives, including children. Thousands are displaced, seeking refuge in temporary shelters. Infrastructure has been severely damaged, including roads, power lines, and water supplies. A landslide also caused a major power outage affecting nearly a million people. The federal government has pledged RM10 million in aid, and the Prime Minister visited the affected areas to assess the damage and offer support for rebuilding efforts.

Vital guide on living safely on Sabah’s hillsides

This article offers condolences to those affected by recent floods and landslides in Sabah, Malaysia. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the risks of hillside living and provides homeowners with information on potential hazards, safety practices, and emergency preparedness. Sabah's steep terrain, coupled with cut and fill slopes for development, increases landslide risks, especially during heavy rainfall. The article aims to educate residents on recognizing warning signs and taking preventative measures.

Anwar orders fast-tracked repairs

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has ordered immediate aid and infrastructure repair for flood and landslide victims in Sabah. He stressed prioritizing repairs, bypassing typical bureaucratic processes to expedite rebuilding, including a new building at the Gaya Teacher Education Institute. An initial RM10 million has been allocated through NADMA for immediate flood relief, with further allocations expected after damage assessments. The Federal and Sabah governments will coordinate aid and repair efforts.

Sabah east coast on alert for strong winds, Civil Defence Force steps up patrols

The Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) is on high alert for potential strong winds along Sabah's east coast, particularly in Sandakan and Lahad Datu. APM officer Captain Sulaiman Salama emphasized their readiness and focus on coastal areas. Sandakan MP Vivian Wong Shir Yee urged residents, especially in coastal villages like Kampung Sim Sim, to be vigilant, reinforce roofing, and prepare for potential evacuations.

SJAM Sabah, US Embassy deepen ties on disaster response, medical training

St John Ambulance of Malaysia, Sabah (SJAM Sabah) and the US Embassy's Civil Military Support Element (CMSE) strengthened their collaboration on disaster response and medical training, focusing on lessons from the recent Penampang floods. They discussed community first aid, AED installations, and inter-agency coordination. The CMSE team visited flood-affected areas and observed the coordinated relief efforts. This meeting marks their second engagement in two days, highlighting their commitment to a long-term strategic partnership.