Severe flooding in Malaysia has led to the evacuation of over 90,000 people, with three confirmed deaths as the country braces for what officials warn could be the worst floods in a decade. The northeastern state of Kelantan has been particularly hard hit, with torrential rains causing widespread devastation.

Key Takeaways

Over 90,000 people displaced across nine states.
Three confirmed fatalities due to flooding.
Kelantan and Terengganu are the worst affected regions.
Government mobilizes over 82,000 personnel for rescue operations.
Heavy rains expected to continue, worsening the situation.

Overview of the Situation

The floods, which are common during Malaysia's monsoon season from October to March, have intensified this week due to unexpected heavy rainfall. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has taken decisive action by barring cabinet members from taking leave, urging them to assist in flood relief efforts. The National Disaster Command Centre reported that nearly 95,000 individuals have been evacuated to temporary shelters as the situation escalates.

Impacted Areas

The flooding has primarily affected the following states:

Kelantan: 63,761 people evacuated.
Terengganu: 22,511 people evacuated.
Other States: Evacuations also reported in Kedah and Sarawak.

Government Response

In response to the crisis, the Malaysian government has deployed:

Over 82,000 security personnel.
Rescue boats, four-wheel drive vehicles, and helicopters.
527 temporary shelters established across nine states.

Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has indicated that the current floods are expected to surpass the severity of those experienced in 2014, when over 250,000 people were displaced. The government is prepared for further rainfall, with forecasts predicting additional heavy showers in the coming days.

The floods have sparked a mix of concern and criticism within the community. While many are focused on the immediate needs of those affected, some officials have faced backlash for comments perceived as insensitive. For instance, a local tourism official suggested promoting surfing activities during the monsoon season to boost local businesses, which drew criticism from the public.

Conclusion

As Malaysia grapples with this natural disaster, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and welfare of those displaced. The government’s swift action and mobilization of resources are crucial in mitigating the impact of the floods. With the monsoon season still ongoing, the situation remains precarious, and further assistance will be necessary to support affected communities.