Brace yourself: Lahad Datu on alert for expected high tides this weekend

KOTA KINABALU: Lahad Datu is bracing for an extreme high tide phenomenon bound for several areas and villages in the east coast Sabah district from Saturday (Oct 19).

The Lahad Datu disaster management committee has activated its district disaster control operation centre (PKOB) to keep people safe and deal with the fallout if the phenomenon lands.

District Officer Firuz Idzualdeen@ Benetty Mohd Dzul said detailed preparations were being taken following a report on the phenomenon by the Malaysia Survey and Mapping Department on its official website.

“To ensure the safety of the local community, the Lahad Datu PKOB has been activated as an early measure to handle any eventuality that could happen due to the phenomenon,” he said in a statement on Friday (Oct 18).

District Officer Firuz Idzualdeen@ Benetty Mohd Dzul

“Among the areas that could potentially be hit by the high tide included Kampung Silam, Kampung Air @ Puyut, Kampung Sabah Baru, Kampung Desa Bajau, Kampung Dasar Baru, Kampung Tanjung Paras, Kampung Taruakan, and Kampung Lok Bikin.

“Those living in high-risk areas, particularly water villages, must always be alert besides taking precautionary measures,” he added.

Firuz, who is the district disaster management chairman, also advised the people to monitor the latest developments through official channels and immediately contact the authorities in the event of an emergency.

He said the Lahad Datu PKOB could be contacted at 089-880991.