Kota kinabalu: A total of 900 Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) members in Sabah, including volunteers, have been mobilised in response to various disaster incidents statewide due to the ongoing monsoon transition season.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, APM Chief Commissioner Datuk Aminurrahim Mohamed reported that as of this morning, disaster incidents, including floods, landslides, and road disruptions, have impacted 1,136 residents in the Penampang, Membakut, and Papar districts.

"On normal days, we assign about 300 personnel throughout Sabah, but we have now increased it to 900 members, including volunteers, who will be mobilised in case of any incidents," said Aminurrahim. He expressed relief that the number of victims is decreasing, with some having already returned home after sheltering at temporary evacuation centres. His remarks came during the 20th anniversary celebration of the Civil Defence Training Academy (ALPHA), an event officiated by Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development Datuk Rubiah Wang, with ALPHA Commandant Colonel APM Roydee Abdul Rahman also in attendance.

Aminurrahim explained that Malaysia is currently transitioning from the Southwest Monsoon (MBT) to the Northeast Monsoon (MTL), a period typically associated with an increased risk of flooding. He noted that although the region has not yet fully entered the MTL, past experiences, such as last year's flooding in Kedah before the official start of the MTL, suggest similar patterns may be emerging, with Sabah experiencing early floods this year.

In response to the current situation, several technical agencies, including the Public Works Department and geology experts, have been mobilised to assess conditions in the affected areas. These efforts aim to ensure that aid can be delivered swiftly and effectively to those in need.

Reports indicate that continuous rain since last week has led to floods and landslides in several parts of the state, resulting in 14 fatalities, including one death due to flooding.