MAFFI Sends Officers to the Field to Monitor Agricultural Sector Damage Caused by Floods

26 February 2026

TENOM: The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Sabah (MAFFI) will ensure that all officers under its jurisdiction carry out field inspections in flood-affected areas across Sabah, including Tenom, Nabawan, Sook, Tongod, Sipitang, Beaufort, and Pitas. The purpose is to monitor current conditions, assess the extent of damage to the agricultural sector, and coordinate immediate assistance to farmers, livestock breeders, and fishermen affected by the floods.

MAFFI Minister Datuk Jamawi Jaafar stated that this on-the-ground approach is crucial to gather accurate and comprehensive information on damage to crops, livestock, and agricultural infrastructure.

He emphasised that such measures would enable aid distribution and recovery efforts to be executed more swiftly and effectively.

Jamawi, who is also the Assembly Member for Melalap, made the remarks during a visit to the Temporary Relief Centre (PPS) at Dewan Seri Panglima Antanom and Dewan SJKC Chung Hwa to observe the situation of flood-affected victims.

He added that the visit also provided an opportunity to interact directly with the victims and understand their needs.

Jamawi explained that the ministry is collaborating with relevant agencies at the district level to ensure that assistance, including livestock feed, planting seeds, and technical support, is delivered promptly and efficiently to all affected areas.

He noted that aid would cover districts in the West Coast and Interior regions impacted by unpredictable weather conditions.

Furthermore, he stressed the importance of continuous monitoring of agricultural areas to detect damage early.

Such measures, he said, enable district agricultural offices to provide targeted assistance and prevent larger losses of agricultural produce.

MAFFI also advises farmers to always comply with authorities' instructions and take appropriate safety precautions throughout the monsoon season.

Farmers are encouraged to report any damage or flood threats to their district agricultural offices so that follow-up actions can be taken swiftly.

Jamawi added that the State Government is committed to restoring the agricultural sector in flood-affected areas, enabling farmers, livestock breeders, and fishermen to resume operations as quickly as possible.

He stated that these efforts are expected to help reduce the economic impact on rural communities that rely heavily on agriculture and fisheries.

He also highlighted that collaboration between the ministry, relevant agencies, and local communities is key to facing the challenges of the monsoon season.

“Ultimately, cooperation between the ministry, agencies, and local communities is essential in tackling this monsoon season. All parties must remain prepared and alert to early warnings to ensure the safety of lives and the economic sustainability of rural residents,” he concluded.