Moratorium should be continued to assist entrepreneurs affected by disasters, says former Kuskop minister

TUARAN: Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick has proposed that the Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP) ministry to continue implementing loan repayment moratoriums to assist entrepreneurs affected by disasters.

The state Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship, and Transportation minister also said that at the ministry level, his side would propose to the Federal Government—specifically KUSKOP—that the previously established Joint Committee be maintained to ensure development coordination is carried out more effectively.

According to Ewon, the establishment of this committee is vital not only for coordinating entrepreneurship development programs but also for addressing issues related to calamities and disasters that directly impact business continuity.

"Previously, funding agencies under KUSKOP implemented policies to provide moratoriums or loan repayment flexibility, including payment deferments for up to a maximum of six months for affected entrepreneurs.

"In this regard, I will seek confirmation from KUSKOP on whether this policy is still being continued or otherwise," he told reporters after officiating the UPKO Christmas and New Year 2026 Open House at Dewan Seri Sulaman here today.

Ewon, who is also the former Kuskop minister, made these remarks when asked to comment on government efforts to assist entrepreneurs affected by disasters in Sabah.

He added that the move is in line with the State Government's efforts to ensure that micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) remain competitive despite facing unforeseen challenges.

As of press time, the flood situation in Sabah has seen a slight increase in the number of displaced residents today, particularly in the West Coast and Interior divisions.

There were 495 people from 136 families are currently sheltered at Temporary Evacuation Centres (PPS).

Disaster alert in Kota Kinabalu was officially declared last night (Jan 3) following flash floods that displaced nearly 300 residents, with a major PPS opened at Dewan Masjid Al Munir, Kampung Darau.

In Beaufort, roughly 190 victims remain at the Selagon Permanent Evacuation Centre due to rising river levels.

As for Tambunan, the water levels at Sg. Pegalan (Keranaan) have exceeded the Alert level (565.05m), though the trend is currently stable.

MetMalaysia has issued a warning for rough seas in the South China Sea for the first week of January.

Residents in low-lying areas, particularly in Kota Kinabalu, Penampang, and Beaufort, are advised to remain vigilant as high tides coinciding with afternoon rains may exacerbate flooding.