Kota Kinabalu: Wira Warisan urged the Sabah Government to implement special rebates on water and electricity bills for flood victims in Sipitang, Beaufort and Tenom.
Its Central Information Chief, Mohammad Norizhuan Awang, said the recent floods were not merely a natural disaster but had become a financial burden for thousands of families in the affected districts.
He said many homes were damaged, furniture destroyed, electrical appliances submerged and vehicles affected, while numerous victims also lost income due to business closures and work disruptions.
“The situation was more distressing as the disaster struck during Ramadan, with Muslims preparing for Hari Raya Aidilfitri,” he said in a statement on Tuesday.
Questioning whether it was reasonable for flood victims struggling to recover to be charged utility bills as usual, he called on the State Government to take immediate and practical steps by granting special rebates to ease their burden.
Norizhuan said similar measures had been swiftly implemented in several states in Peninsular Malaysia during major floods, and stressed that Sabahans deserved the same level of concern and action.
“Utility rebates would significantly reduce cost-of-living pressures as victims repair their homes, restore businesses and rebuild their lives,” he said.
He urged the government to act promptly and adopt a compassionate and fair approach to ensure the welfare of Sabahans is safeguarded, especially in disaster situations beyond their control.
