More than 8,000 evacuees still remain across Johor, Sabah, and Sarawak despite declining figures.
Floodwaters have begun to recede across parts of Johor and Sarawak, with a gradual decline in evacuee numbers. However, Sabah recorded a slight increase as relief efforts continue.
Recent heavy rainfall across Malaysia led to widespread flooding, prompting thousands of residents in Johor, Sabah, and Sarawak to seek shelter in temporary relief centres. Authorities are closely monitoring water levels and providing support to displaced communities.
As of 8am on March 23, the number of evacuees in Johor dropped to 6,911 people from 2,068 families, down from 8,040 the previous day. The majority are still housed across 43 flood relief centres, with Johor Baru alone accounting for 3,435 evacuees. Other affected areas include Kluang, Pontian, Batu Pahat, and Kota Tinggi. Only one river, Sungai Kahang in Kluang, remains above the danger level.
Sabah’s Beaufort Sees Slight Increase
In Sabah, the number of displaced individuals rose to 393 from 127 families by the morning of March 23, with Beaufort emerging as the only district still affected. Earlier evacuees in Sipitang and Keningau were allowed to return home. The increase from 209 evacuees the night before signals lingering flood threats in isolated areas despite improvements elsewhere.
Sarawak Maintains Stable Situation
In Sarawak, the number of evacuees remained steady at 970 across six relief centres in Sibu and Kapit. Facilities in Selangau, Kanowit, and Song continue to shelter affected residents. Officials are maintaining alertness, although no major rise in water levels has been reported.
By 4pm on March 23, total evacuees across the three states fell to around 5,600. In Johor, that number dropped to 4,597, with 3,042 individuals still in Johor Baru alone. Sabah’s count rose slightly in Beaufort, while Sarawak reported unchanged figures. Despite progress, flood risks remain as weather patterns continue to fluctuate.
Local Resilience and Government Support
Authorities, through the National Disaster Command Centre, are working with local communities to provide food, shelter, and medical aid. Evacuees are being cared for in well-coordinated shelters, though the government urges continued vigilance in flood-prone areas.
The gradual improvement in Johor and Sarawak suggests effective disaster response, though Sabah’s increase underscores the need for continued preparedness. With infrastructure and humanitarian systems in place, Malaysia’s ongoing flood management efforts may offer lessons in regional resilience and cooperation.
Sources: Malay Mail (2025), NST Online (2025)
Keywords: Johor Floods, Sabah Floods, Sarawak Evacuees, Temporary Relief Centres
