KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Public Works Department (PWD) is closely monitoring key state roads prone to landslips and flooding, says Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Bung Moktar Radin(pic).

       He said the district engineers had been ordered to keep close tabs on the roads especially in Sabah's flood-hit northern and eastern districts.

       "I've asked the PWD to be proactive and take necessary action," said Bung Moktar, who is also the state Works Minister, in a statement Monday (Jan 3).

       "Roads that are at risk, including slopes, need to be monitored to ensure they are safe to use and if there are signs of danger, engineers need to inform the Ministry of Works for further action," he added.

       Bung said that warning signs must be put up at "high risk" stretches to ensure road users remained alert and more careful when approaching or passing through the area.

       He also advised the public not to take any risk, especially those driving smaller vehicles, to go through flooded roads even though "it may look safe" as there could be hidden dangers.

       He said the PWD would also update the public on any roads and bridges that have been affected by floods and landslides.

       Sabah roads usually were affected by landslips and severe flooding during heavy rains in the past.

       Meanwhile, state Community Development and People’s

       Wellbeing Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya said they were sending food aid to people in five villages in Kota Marudu who were cut off by the floods.

       Shahelymey, who visited flood victims at the temporary relief centre in Kota Marudu, also said that he was happy with the help being provided to the victims.

       "There is sufficient assistance given. This includes pillows, mattresses and sufficient space to cook," he added.

       Many areas in northern Kota Marudu district saw flood waters recede Monday but authorities have advised them to stay on at the relief centres in view of anticipated rains till Tuesday (Jan 4).