SANDAKAN: The Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) here demonstrated its readiness by responding to multiple incidents within a 24-hour period, involving from wildlife intrusion, storm damage, and flood monitoring.
The first incident occurred on Jan 29 at approximately 7.11 pm, following an emergency report via NG999 from a family in Rancangan Sungai Manila, Mile 12, who were concerned about the presence of a civet.
An APM team was deployed to the location and captured the black and brown patterned civet, which was found injured and weak. The operation was fully completed by 9.40 pm. The animal was subsequently handed over to the Wildlife Department for further action.
Less than 24 hours later, on Jan 30 around 10.59 am, Sandakan APM was again mobilised after receiving a public report of a fallen tree in the area of a hotel in town.
According District APM officer Kapten (PA) Sulaiman Salama, the ornamental tree is believed to have fallen due to heavy rain and strong winds, damaging two vehicles—a four-wheel-drive and a Perodua Bezza.
APM personnel promptly carried out cutting and clearing works, which were fully completed by 11.32 am.
The persistent heavy rain since early Friday morning also prompted APM to conduct continuous monitoring and patrols at flood hotspot areas, including Ladang Sandak, Kampung Sungai Memanjang, and Mile 15. Monitoring indicated rising water levels, but the current situation remains under control with no need for resident evacuation as of now.
Sandakan APM remains on high alert and will continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure public safety, prepared to take further action if necessary. – James Leong
The civet that intruded into a house compound in Rancangan Sungai Manila on Thursday.
