Severe Flooding and Landslides Hit Two Malaysian States, Forcing Thousands to Evacuate

KUALA LUMPUR – At least five people have lost their lives and thousands have been forced from their homes across two Malaysian states in Borneo due to days of heavy rain-based floods and landslides.

Extensive Rainfall and Evacuation

Government records indicate that more than 700mm of rain has fallen in parts of Sabah and Sarawak, which are home to Petronas’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant. The Malaysian Meteorological Department warns that continuous rainfall is expected to continue until January 31.

Affected Areas and Operations Status

The area around Bintulu in Sarawak, which houses a Petronas nine-train LNG complex capable of processing nearly 30 million metric tonnes annually, has been severely impacted by rainfall according to the Department of Irrigation and Drainage.

Petronas reports that despite the severe flooding, operations at the plant remain unaffected, with the company closely monitoring the situation.

Extent of Evacuation

More than 5,000 residents have been relocated from their homes as of January 30, according to local news reports, describing the situation as “the worst floods in recent years.”

Visual Impact of Floods

Photos and videos circulating on social media show entire neighborhoods submerged in muddy water and individuals either swept away by currents or stranded on rooftops. Bloomberg has not independently verified this footage.

Intensity of Rainfall

Bintulu received nearly 800mm of rain in the last 48 hours, according to meteorologist Jason Nicholls of commercial forecaster AccuWeather. He explained the unusual situation during an interview.

“While it isn’t uncommon to experience showers and thunderstorms, the volume and persistence of them are more frequent than expected. The rain has no place to go as the ground is already saturated.”

Forecast and Ongoing Concerns

Although the immediate forecast suggests a slight reduction in storm intensity, the downpour is expected to continue without relief until January 31.

Impact on Infrastructure

The region has been drenched by heavy rain for weeks, leaving the soil saturated. This saturation increases the risk of landslides and other flooding hazards, further complicating recovery efforts.

Preparations and Relief

Relief efforts are underway to assist those affected, but the government is urging patience and preparedness as the situation remains fluid.

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