KOTA KINABALU: A hub has been formed by the Institute for Development Studies (IDS) Sabah to centralise disaster relief efforts across the state, says its chief executive officer Datuk Dr Ramzah Dambul.
He said that the IDS-Kembara Kitchen-PACOS Voluntary Service Hub has been set up to ensure that aid is distributed efficiently and equitably as well as minimising duplication and filling coverage gaps
“IDS took the initiative to bring together all key disaster relief stakeholders, creating a unified framework that aligns volunteer groups and NGOs under a single umbrella, fostering a coordinated and prioritised approach to disaster response,” he said.
He added that the establishment of this disaster relief hub will enhance early preparation efforts to mitigate the risk and impact of disasters, particularly the La Niña-induced floods anticipated later this year.
Beyond flood response, the hub will also coordinate aid for other natural disasters affecting Sabah, including fires, droughts, landslides, and earthquakes.
Ramzah said IDS organised a briefing recently on the setting up of the disaster relief hub, attended by 95 participants from government agencies, non-governmental organisations, private companies and voluntary groups.
Kembara Kitchen founder William Cheah, who has nearly a decade of experience coordinating disaster relief in Peninsular Malaysia, shared insights during the session.
The initiative has received strong support from Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Minister and Penampang MP Datuk Ewon Benedick and Kapayan assemblyman, Jannie Lasimbang.