PENDANG: Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor has defended his recent working trip to Japan, which occurred while the state faced severe flooding since Monday.
Sanusi also denies allegations suggesting that he was away taking his new wife on honeymoon, as claimed by certain quarters.
"For example, (there were claims) that I went on a honeymoon. That is not true. I am accused of bringing my new wife (to Japan), which is also false," he told reporters here today.
He said the trip had been planned since April, and it was ensured that costs were kept minimal.
Sanusi added that the trip, aimed at studying the implementation of underwater dams in Japan, had already commenced before the floods hit the state.
"The underground dam development in Japan is among the most advanced globally. They are recognised as experts in groundwater management. So, the trip was not without merit, and we had already left before the floods began.
"No one asks for floods to happen. We plan our work, and Allah has His plans. When Allah carries out His work, we do ours with His permission too," he said.
Hence, Sanusi criticised those who condemned his decision to proceed with the visit.
"Floodwaters will recede. I can return. There's no issue, but false claims and slander will linger. The greatest enemy to our society is ignorance and speaking without knowing the facts. It would be better to ask first.
"When the floods recede, the falsehoods will remain until 'Kiamat' (Judgment Day). Slander and false accusations about others will be carried to the afterlife to face Allah," he said.
He urged those involved in spreading such accusations to reflect and refrain from making statements beyond their knowledge.
Previously, social media was abuzz with allegations that Sanusi was on holiday abroad with his wife during the floods and storms in Kedah.
Amongst the critics was Sungai Petani member of Parliament Dr Taufiq Johari, who said there was no pressing need for Sanusi to visit Japan to learn about the underground water catchment management system to be built in Langkawi as it was a federal project.
Meanwhile, Sanusi said the flood situation in the state remains under control, despite a rise in victims, particularly in Kota Setar district.