Flooding Crisis in Sabah Displaces Thousands

Flooding in Sabah, Malaysia, has escalated significantly, affecting multiple districts and displacing over 5,000 residents. As of February 25, 2026, the Sabah State Disaster Management Committee reported that 5,141 individuals from 2,160 families have been evacuated due to rising water levels, particularly in the northern and eastern regions, including Pitas, Kota Marudu, Paitan, and Tawau. The situation has prompted the establishment of 27 temporary relief centers to accommodate those affected.

Sabah floods displace more than 5,000 as Tawau declared disaster areaThe Straits TimesOver 5,000 affected as flooding persists in Northern Sabah

The flooding has primarily impacted the following districts:

Over 5,000 affected as flooding persists in Northern Sabah

• Pitas: The hardest hit, with 2,120 evacuees.

Sabah floods displace more than 5,000 as Tawau declared disaster area

• Kota Marudu: Home to 1,929 evacuees.

Sabah floods displace more than 5,000 as Tawau declared disaster area

• Paitan: Affected 847 individuals.

Sabah floods displace more than 5,000 as Tawau declared disaster area

• Tawau: The latest district to be declared flood-affected, housing 245 evacuees.

Sabah floods displace more than 5,000 as Tawau declared disaster area

The floods have damaged numerous homes, vehicles, and properties, although the full extent of the damage remains undetermined. Road access to many affected areas has been severely restricted, complicating rescue and relief efforts.

Over 5,000 affected as flooding persists in Northern Sabah

Rescue teams have been actively transporting displaced residents to relief centers, with ongoing registration of evacuees. The Sabah Education Department has reported that 27 schools across six districts remain closed due to the flooding, with Beaufort recording the highest number of school closures at 14. Authorities are closely monitoring river levels and weather conditions, coordinating response efforts through district disaster committees and state agencies.

Over 5,000 affected as flooding persists in Northern Sabah

Officials have confirmed that there have been no fatalities related to the flooding, and no residents are reported stranded outside relief centers. The Sabah State Disaster Management Committee continues to assess the situation, emphasizing the need for vigilance during the rainy season, which often leads to rapid flooding in low-lying areas.

Over 5,000 affected as flooding persists in Northern Sabah

While the response efforts have been largely coordinated, some local residents have expressed concerns about the speed and effectiveness of the relief operations, particularly in remote areas where access has been cut off. The need for better infrastructure to manage flood risks has also been highlighted by community leaders.

Over 5,000 affected as flooding persists in Northern Sabah

There are discrepancies in the reported number of evacuees, with earlier figures indicating 4,761 individuals displaced before the count rose to 5,141. Additionally, while no fatalities have been reported, the evolving nature of the flooding raises concerns about potential risks as conditions change.

Over 5,000 affected as flooding persists in Northern Sabah

As the situation develops, authorities are expected to continue monitoring weather patterns and river levels closely. Further assessments of damage and needs in affected communities will guide ongoing relief efforts and recovery plans.

Over 5,000 affected as flooding persists in Northern Sabah