BY JACINTHA JOLENE & ANNABELL NAJA TOMMY
SAMARAHAN: A total of 217 families affected by floods early this year received financial assistance at the Samarahan Civic Centre here on Tuesday (April 26).
Kota Samarahan MP Datuk Rubiah Wang, who officiated at the event, said this year was very challenging due to an increase in areas inundated with floodwaters.
“Although there were many issues during the search and rescue operations and evacuation of flood victims, all was implemented effectively.
“The floods had greatly impacted the lives of those affected…destruction of property and the flood victims had to put up at temporary evacuation centres.
“Previously, when there was no Covid-19, we were able to cook in the centres but now we had to adapt, by distributing packed food instead.
“Many issues were raised up with the district and divisional administrations and also elected representatives, especially with regard to the destruction of property and the losses incurred.”
She disclosed that the distribution of flood aid was based on Majlis Keselamatan Negara (National Security Council) 20 or MKN20, and still used the old rate of RM500 per household.
“I hope that this assistance could alleviate a bit of the burden and I would like to apologise for not being able to provide immediate assistance.
“We had to follow procedures and needed action to be taken at the district and divisional level first, followed by the state government and lastly the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma).
“I was made to understand that the distribution process was an issue because it was slow.
“As elected representatives, we always follow up with Nadma regarding the financial assistance,” Rubiah explained.
She added that she had identified 10 flood-prone areas and “every year, the disaster committee at district and divisional levels together with the people’s representative, will plan, then make preparations and take action with regard to floods in Samarahan.”
“We always improve the facilities in lowland areas and villages that are always flooded and this costs millions to ensure the projects run smoothly.
“Both state and federal governments are always concerned about flood issues,” she elaborated.
At the same event, Samarahan District officer Annuar Daan said aid was distributed to families in the Muara Tuang and Stakan constituencies.
“This included 11 affected areas – seven villages in Muara Tuang, three villages and one residential area in Stakan.”
