SERIAN: The sudden onset of flooding on Jan 31 trapped the communities of Kampung Tanah Puteh and Kampung Sebemban, leaving them stranded and without access to essential supplies.
What began as heavy rainfall on Jan 28 escalated rapidly, with floodwaters rising to dangerous levels by the morning of Jan 31.
Roads connecting Kampung Tanah Puteh, and Kampung Sebemban, with Kampung Munggu Kopi were soon submerged, rendering them impassable.
The main access road, a vital lifeline for the villagers, was overwhelmed by floodwaters that reached up to 1.5 meters, isolating the communities from the outside world.
In the absence of any warning, residents found themselves trapped, unable to access food, medicine, or other necessities.
Many were left with no way to leave the villages or receive help, as the only route to nearby towns was blocked.
“We were completely cut off. We had no way to get out. We were stranded, with no food or supplies coming in. It was a helpless feeling,” one resident told Sarawak Tribune.
As the floodwaters rose, volunteer leader Meeks Mape and his four-wheel drive (4×4) teams swung into action, determined to help the stranded villagers.
The 60-year-old leader of Sakta4X4, hailing from Singai, Bau, has been a dedicated figure in disaster relief efforts since 2016.
On January 31, Meeks and his team, joined by D-GENERATION 4×4, Sasper Society, Kera Team, and H9 Overland, sprang into action on receiving instructions from the Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS).
He mobilised a total 12 4×4 vehicles and 25 volunteers to assist the residents of Tanah Puteh.
“This area is the most badly affected,” Meeks noted.
“Other areas, like Kedup and Kampung Munggu Limo, are okay. But here, as you can see, you really need a 4×4 to get through.”
The team worked quickly, delivering critical supplies and ensuring that the MRCS officers were able to enter the village and provide aid.
Meeks said they helped mainly with logistics, bringing in food, water, and officers to assist the residents.
“We split into two groups: one focused on Tanah Puteh, while the other went to Kedup,” he added.
For Meeks and his team, this was not their first mission.
As a co-founder of Sakta4X4, Meeks has led multiple disaster relief operations in areas like Lubok Antu and Baram.
However, the flooding in Kampung Tanah Puteh presented a unique challenge.
“This flood is not as bad as some of the ones we have seen in Kuching, but it is definitely the deepest we have experienced.
“We have always been ready to help, whether it is floods, landslides, or other emergencies,” he said.
The volunteers continued to work round the clock, with their mission far from over.
Meeks assured that the team will stay as long as they are needed.
“The important thing is that these people are not left without help. Our mission is to make sure they get the support they need.”
Through the dedication of Meeks and his team, the resilient communities of Kampung Tanah Puteh have been reminded of the power of volunteerism.
When disaster strikes, local heroes like Meeks and the 4×4 teams rise to the occasion, ensuring that even the most isolated communities are not forgotten.
