ALOR STAR: Kedah Umno liaison committee chairman Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid believes there is no issue with the federal government assisting the state with post-flood infrastructure repairs.
However, he advised Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor to reconsider his criticism of the federal government.
"I have no doubt the federal government will continue to assist Kedah. However, when aid is being offered, it is important not to come across as arrogant. Be mindful of your words," he said in a press conference after chairing the state Barisan Nasional (BN) committee meeting at Bangunan Tunku yesterday.
"I don't understand why the federal government wouldn't assist, but I think the Kedah MB should adjust his tone. Sometimes, he can be a bit too harsh. If he were kinder, people would be more willing to help. I believe even the Prime Minister wants to assist, but Sanusi is constantly attacking the federal government," he added.
Mahdzir was commenting on Sanusi's remarks yesterday, wishing for the federal government to consider aiding Kedah following another bout of floods that has left extensive damage to infrastructure in the state.
Sanusi was reported as saying that he was confident Kedah would receive support, citing the good relationship between the state and the federal government.
Mahdzir said that the federal government had already provided aid before the flood struck.
"The federal government has been proactive in assisting Kedah even before the recent floods. The Meteorological Department (METMalaysia) issued a weather warning about continuous heavy rainfall, and Nadma (National Disaster Management Agency), under Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, had prepared all necessary items for flood relief centres, such as partition tents and portable mattresses."
"The Welfare Department ensured meals for the evacuees, which required a significant budget. The firefighters, police, and other rescue agencies were all on standby. This shows that all federal agencies were ready to provide assistance even before the disaster occurred," he said.
Mahdzir said that the federal government would continue to help with post-flood recovery, especially regarding damage to public infrastructure such as clinics, hospitals, police stations, and roads, which would require federal funding.
"As for the flood victims whose homes were damaged, I believe the Rural and Regional Development Ministry and the Housing and Local Government Ministry will provide assistance for repairs," he said.
Meanwhile, he also announced that Kedah BN would be hosting a state-level convention on Dec 14 in Sungai Petani. BN chairman and Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi is scheduled to officiate the one-day convention.