Najib closely monitoring events in Sabah

Despite being in Saudi Arabia, Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak is closely following developments in the aftermath of the earthquake which hit Ranau, Sabah on Friday. – The Malaysian Insider pic, June 7, 2015.

Despite his busy schedule and packed programme in his visit to Saudi Arabia, Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak is closely following developments in the aftermath of the earthquake which hit Ranau, Sabah on Friday. 

Najib in his latest Facebook posting today, said Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, as the National Disaster Management Committee chairman, was in Sabah to monitor the situation and manage relief operations in the state. 

"Even though I am in Jeddah for an official visit, Cabinent ministers and the National Security Council, as well as government agencies related to rescue work, are keeping me informed on the latest developments. 

"Insya Allah (God willing), with them there, a hajat (special) prayer will be held tonight. May Allah protect Malaysians, especially in Sabah, to facilitate rescue efforts," he said. 

Najib arrived in Jeddah on Saturday night and was accorded an official welcome led by Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Naif al-Saud at the King Abdulaziz al-Saud International Airport.

Najib also assured that all efforts would be made by the government agencies to search and rescue those still stranded on Mount Kinabalu.

"I am sad to read about the reports of the earthquake which happened in Sabah. Many lives were lost, infrastructure and buildings were damaged. Some (victims) have still not been found," said Najib.

He also expressed his condolences to the families of the victims who died in the earthquake.

On the 23 school buildings, as well as infrastructure such as roads, which were damaged by the earthquake, Najib said the federal government and the Sabah state government would monitor, prepare reports and take immediate action to ensure that all these are repaired as soon as possible for the comfort of the people, especially students in Sabah.

He said members and assets of the Armed Forces were prepared to be mobilised, while the Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) comprising paramedics, engineers and rescue personnel would also be used to provide any assistance needed.

"I hope all Malaysians regardless of race and religion will continue to pray for the safety of the people in Sabah," he said.

So far, 16 people have been confirmed killed in the 7.15 am earthquake measuring 5.9 on the Richter scale. It is the first earthquake in Malaysia to have claimed lives.

The quake was followed by several minor aftershocks which were felt in Tambunan, Tuaran, Kota Kinabalu and Kota Belud. – Bernama