Search Continues for SESB Staff Swept Away by Strong Currents

18 September 2025

KENINGAU: The Parliamentary People's Service Centre (PKRP) Keningau has provided moral support and provisions to rescue personnel involved in the ongoing search for a missing Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB) employee.

The staff member was swept away by the strong current of the Apin-Apin River at Kampung Nuntunan, Apin-Apin, yesterday.

The Bingkor State Constituency Coordination Officers, Johari Pongod, and Jailine Rose Lian were present at the search and rescue (SAR) operations centre in Kampung Banjar.

They represented the Deputy Chief Minister and Member of Parliament for Keningau, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.

Their visit was also to deliver essential food supplies and express solidarity with both the rescue teams and the family of the missing victim.

“We understand the difficulties and sacrifices of the rescue team, and we also share the deep concern of the victim’s family. Our presence is to support them so they know they are not in this alone,” Johari stated.

The tragedy occurred at approximately 9pm when a Sabah SESB four-wheel-drive vehicle, carrying three staff members on duty, was caught in a powerful current while attempting to cross the river's low-water crossing (LLC). Two of the occupants managed to escape to safety, but one individual remains unaccounted for.

The large-scale SAR operation, which includes around 40 personnel from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Fire and Rescue Department (BOMBA), the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM), and local villagers, has been underway.

Despite their efforts, the victim has not yet been located. The search is scheduled to resume today focusing on the same area.