PUTRAJAYA: The state and district disaster management committees in Pahang and Johor should take appropriate measures to prepare for the second wave of floods, expected to begin this Sunday.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who also chairs the National Disaster Management Committee said such preparations are vital to avoid any unwanted incidents.
"The second wave of floods is expected to occur from Dec 8 to 14, affecting Johor and Pahang.
"We hope the state and district disaster management committees will prepare for this, and early preparations should be made to prevent any unwanted incidents," he said during his speech at the Rural and Regional Development Ministry's monthly assembly and Innovation Day celebration.
Zahid added that preparations for the second wave are more comprehensive compared to the first, as authorities have conducted a flood simulation exercise.
Meanwhile, Zahid, who is also the Rural and Regional Development Minister, called on the ministry to take proactive measures and mobilise efforts to assist flood victims.
These initiatives include providing new homes or repairing damaged ones, launching a flood relief fund, and establishing Skuad Ihsan Madani to assist with post-flood recovery efforts.
He urged the ministry, along with its departments, agencies, and subsidiaries, to collaborate and take concrete actions to support affected communities.
"I propose several measures for implementation at the ministry level. Firstly, assess and evaluate homes in rural areas that were damaged by the floods, and provide new homes or repairs for the affected residences.
"Secondly, launch a flood relief fund to provide assistance, whether in the form of financial aid or daily necessities.
"Thirdly, establish Skuad Ihsan Madani at all levels of the ministry, its agencies, and subsidiaries. This squad can focus on post-flood recovery efforts to help affected families.
"These efforts reflect the ministry's commitment to supporting the people during disasters and demonstrate our unity and concern for the welfare of rural communities impacted by such events," Zahid said.
As of 1 am today, a total of 63,145 people have been relocated to temporary evacuation centres in seven states still affected by floods that began last week.
The states are Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah, Johor, Melaka, Perak and Pahang.