Paitan: Recent severe flooding in Paitan has affected 19 schools, including Sekolah Kebangsaan Bawang K9, which was submerged by floodwaters, resulting in damage to school property. The school's security guard Muksin Majambu, 49, recalled that heavy rain began on the night of Feb 18 and continued into the following day.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Muksin Majambu stated, "At dawn, my friend and I were scheduled to be on duty at the school, so we came earlier that night. The rain did not stop, and we expected the water level to rise, but we did not expect such a major flood. In my 11 years working here, this is the first time I have seen flooding this severe, to the point that the school was completely submerged." He added that they moved books, school equipment, and other important items to higher ground as the floodwaters began entering the teachers' room by midnight. Using a boat, they rescued two teachers stranded at the staff quarters, bringing them to safety at a mosque around 4 am.

The floodwaters only fully receded on the third day, allowing cleanup work to begin. Muksin expressed being traumatised by the incident and saddened by the extent of the damage, noting that books, computers, television units, and school furniture were damaged.

Meanwhile, school cleaner July Janting, 40, mentioned that the incident occurred during the school holidays. Rising water levels were initially reported by the security guard, and cleanup work was underway as the school was set to reopen. She added that the school experiences about three floods a year, although floodwaters rarely enter classrooms.

The Tangkarason Health Clinic, operating from a new building after its original premises were destroyed by fire in 2024, was also hit by the floods. Chairman of the Tangkarason Health Advisory Panel and Health Clinic Johmen Masandu reported that losses due to the flooding are estimated to exceed RM1 million. Health personnel recorded extensive damage, including the loss of vehicles, furniture, medical equipment, medicines, and vaccines.

Johmen expressed hope for expedited delivery of remaining medical equipment supplies and immediate replacement of flood-damaged equipment, as the clinic serves as a vital healthcare facility. The clinic will temporarily operate from the village hall, providing medicine supplies to patients, as many have run out of essential medication. Assistance with medicine supplies will be provided by the Beluran Health Office and the Telupid Health Clinic to ensure continuity of care for patients in the area.