PAPAR – Tragedy struck Kampung Mook, Kinarut, when a landslide killed a mother and her young son, leaving their family and villagers in shock. The incident happened around 10 am and claimed the lives of a 38-year-old woman and her 11-year-old son.
Her younger sister, Edna Johnny, 36, was among the survivors. She recalled the terrifying moment when she heard screams during the landslide but could not be sure if it was her sister’s voice.
“During the incident, I was resting in my room when I suddenly heard a loud crashing sound, like a tree hitting the zinc roof. My husband and I immediately jumped out of the window with our two children,” she said.
In the rush to save her family, Edna injured her feet after stepping on broken glass but did not feel the pain at the time. “I only thought about saving the children. Only later did I realize there were pieces of glass stuck in my soles,” she explained.
Unfortunately, her sister’s house was located at the foot of the hill and was badly hit by the landslide. By the time Edna and her family escaped, it was too late to help. “I could only see their bodies being taken out in white plastic,” she said with grief.
Edna also shared that just the day before, her sister had expressed her wish to help sew a wedding dress for their younger sibling who is set to marry in November. That wish now remains unfulfilled.
A video of the victims’ husband went viral on social media, showing him pleading desperately for excavator owners to help rescue his wife and child trapped under the debris.
Sabah Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Director Mohd Pisar Aziz confirmed receiving the distress call at 10.02 am. After nearly four hours of search and rescue efforts, both victims were found but were declared dead at the scene by medical officers.
Authorities continue to monitor the area for risks of further landslides, urging villagers to remain alert during this rainy season. — Bernama
