More than 3,000 Orang Asli residents across three settlements in Nenggiri have been cut off after a log bridge spanning the Peralong River collapsed yesterday evening.
The incident, which occurred around 7pm, is believed to have been caused by flash floods following heavy rainfall earlier in the day. Local resident Dendi Johari, 37, said the collapse has left communities in Pos Tohoi, Pos Simpor, and Pos Gob unable to leave their settlements.
“I was informed by a friend about the incident at around 7pm. The log bridge is now completely broken and cannot be crossed by any vehicle. We hope the bridge can be repaired as soon as possible, especially for the teachers in the interior areas who need to travel during the weekend,” he said.
State Assemblyman (ADUN) for Nenggiri, Mohd Azmawi Fikri Abdul Ghani, confirmed he was notified of the situation by villagers last night. He advised residents to exercise caution during the monsoon season, warning that traveling in the forest should be done in groups due to the risk of landslides and flash floods.
“Immediate action will be taken to repair the bridge as it serves as a main route for the Orang Asli community in the area,” he added.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety and mobility of affected residents.
