Kuala lumpur: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has ordered the immediate installation of a Bailey bridge across Sungai Kaiduan, Papar, Sabah, after the existing structure collapsed due to flooding, cutting off access to the area.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid instructed the Sabah Public Works Department (JKR) and the Royal Engineer Regiment (RAJD), which has expertise in Bailey bridge construction, to carry out the installation without delay. “I understand that the bridge at Sungai Kaiduan has collapsed due to flooding, causing the area to be cut off,” said Ahmad Zahid, who is the Central Disaster Management Committee chairman.
He emphasized the urgency of the bridge construction as the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) had supplied three modular steel bridge units (Bailey Bridges) to the Sabah government last year to enhance infrastructure preparedness for disasters. Apart from addressing the collapsed bridge, Ahmad Zahid mentioned that the Sabah JKR is also focusing on repair works along the Penampang-Tambunan Road following a landslide that disrupted the main route.
According to him, efforts such as clearing debris, stabilizing slopes, and carrying out immediate repairs are being actively conducted in collaboration with concession companies. “These efforts also cover the reconstruction of damaged suspension bridges, rebuilding slope retaining walls in residential areas affected by erosion, and repairing collapsed roads,” he added.
Ahmad Zahid expressed appreciation to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and residents for extending humanitarian aid to flood victims in Sabah. “A thousand thanks for the cooperation and contributions. The assistance provided, including ready-to-eat food, daily necessities, blankets, mattresses, pillows, and logistical support, has helped ease the burden of victims and ensured smoother relief operations,” he stated.
He further noted that NADMA Director-General Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah, along with Sabah Federal Secretary Datuk Mohd Razali Wahab, had been deployed to coordinate disaster management in the state. “I pray that all states affected by the floods will recover quickly and that life can return to normal soon,” he said.
It was earlier reported that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has approved an immediate allocation of RM10 million and wants early action to be expedited, especially involving public facilities, roads, schools, and health clinics.