RCKKP Partners with USHWANE to Support Flood Victims

3 May 2025

PENAMPANG: In Membakut, food distribution initiatives were undertaken to benefit villages in severely affected areas, including Kg Lumat, Kg Madang Pimping, Kg Pusak, Kg Tiong Baru, and Kg Bengkawat.

Recently in Sabah, heavy rains caused widespread flooding that displaced thousands of residents. The State Disaster Management Committee reported that dozens of villages, including ten in Membakut, were affected.

Approximately 880 residents (around 295 families) were evacuated and in urgent need of assistance. Rotary teams mobilised swiftly to provide relief. In close collaboration with local partners, efforts were concentrated on five of the flood-affected villages in Membakut.

A Facebook post by Datin Jeanette Tambakau, President Elect of Rotary Club Kota Kinabalu Pearl (RCKKP), stated: “In each village, we delivered much-needed food essentials and brought hope to families impacted by the recent floods. Witnessing the smiles and heartfelt thanks from neighbours reminded us why we serve. By helping those most in need, Rotary conveyed a message of hope and demonstrated that no community in Membakut stands alone.”

She stated that this work was made possible with teamwork and local support. She extends their heartfelt thanks to Rowindy Lawrence, President of the Sabah Rural Women’s Entrepreneurs Development Association (USHWANE), their collaborator.

Her dynamic team for their close coordination with community leaders and villagers. Their guidance ensured relief efforts, swiftly, respectfully, and effectively, she said.

“Together, we exemplified Rotary’s ideals of collaboration and compassion in action—providing comfort and aid during times of greatest need. This partnership truly reflects our Rotary mission to serve others and promote goodwill.”

She said the flood relief mission in Membakut embodies the compassion at the core of their service. With every delivery and every shared smile, they reaffirm their commitment: to stand with these communities, support those in distress, and work towards a better tomorrow—together.

Meanwhile, President Chendramata Sinteh of RCKKP also emphasised the strength of the partnership.

“This partnership between RCKKP and USHWANE is a testament to the strength of community spirit. In times of crisis, we are reminded that collective action brings the greatest impact. It’s through alliances like this that we’re able to reach further, act faster, and serve better.”

Rowindy Lawrence, President of USHWANE, voiced her heartfelt gratitude and satisfaction for the opportunity to collaborate with Rotary on this vital relief mission. She emphasised that such partnerships among non-governmental organisations are crucial in delivering effective aid and support to those in need. Acknowledging the widespread devastation caused by the recent floods, she highlighted the urgent need for coordinated efforts to provide timely and appropriate assistance to the affected communities.

She remarked, “Collaboration in this matter is vital to ensure that victims receive the right kind of support to help them recover and rebuild their lives. By working together, we can pool our resources, expertise, and compassion to make a meaningful difference during these challenging times. It is only through united efforts that we can truly alleviate suffering and bring hope to those most affected by this disaster.”