KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government is monitoring the effects of the eruption of Indonesia's Gunung Ruang closely, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
"I have been briefed about the situation and we are keeping tabs. We prioritise the safety of the people," he said.
More than 20,000 passengers have been affected by the suspension of flights in and out of Kota Kinabalu, Labuan, Tawau and Sandakan today.
Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew urged people affected by the suspension of flights, including tourists, to be patient.
Gunung Ruang's eruption shot ash plumes nearly 70,000ft into the air, she said.
"Be patient. The magnitude of the phenomenon was unforeseen and beyond our control.
"The government is monitoring the situation closely," said Liew.
