Jannie Lasimbang Urges Unity and Action in Penampang Landslide Recovery

3 November 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Former Kapayan assemblywoman and Sabah DAP Deputy Chairperson Jannie Lasimbang has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prioritising safety and welfare following the landslide incident at Block 20, Country Heights Apartment, Penampang, stressing that the matter should not be politicised.

Jannie said the authorities have taken the incident, which occurred on 15 September 2025, very seriously, with all relevant agencies, including the Sabah Public Works Department (JKR Sabah), Penampang District Council (MPP), and the District Disaster Management Committee (JPBN) working in close coordination to ensure the well-being of affected residents.

“Although the site is located outside my constituency, it falls under the administrative jurisdiction of the Penampang District. All relevant agencies are working together to provide technical support and assistance wherever needed,” she said.

Jannie cautioned against turning the disaster into political capital, calling instead for continued focus on safety and recovery efforts.

“Let it be clear that this is not a matter to be turned into political mileage. The focus must remain on people’s safety, not politics.

"While some are trying to score points through statements, our engineers, disaster response teams, and welfare officers have been working continuously to secure the site, relocate affected families, and begin mitigation works,” she said.

Following a technical inspection by JKR Sabah, Block 20 has been deemed safe for reoccupation, provided that the recommended temporary mitigation measures, including slope protection, drainage maintenance, and continuous monitoring, are properly completed and maintained. Planning for permanent slope repairs is already in progress.

Jannie also highlighted the importance of shared responsibility in ensuring long-term safety.

“Other recommended mitigation measures must be implemented with the joint accountability of all parties, including the building management. Safety on private property requires consistent follow-through and cooperation,” she added.

In the meantime, affected residents have been temporarily housed at ILMAN Penampang, coordinated by the District Disaster Management Committee and the Welfare Department, with their well-being remaining a top priority.

Jannie expressed appreciation for the residents’ patience and cooperation, assuring them that the government remains fully committed to restoring safety and providing transparent updates throughout the recovery process.

She also urged all quarters, particularly the opposition, to act responsibly and refrain from exploiting the tragedy for publicity.

“What the people need now is action and unity, not politicised noise,” she said.