All throughout this month, Malaysia has seen days of continuous rain and flooding, causing flood-prone states like Kelantan, Johor, and Terengganu seeing a huge rise in flood victims fleeing their homes.
According to Astro Awani, a total of 2,000 people were sent to the temporary evacuation center (PPS) in Kelantan alone.
Kelantan Deputy MB: Normal to have floods
Despite the worrying figures, this didn’t seem to concern Kelantan deputy MB Datuk Mohd Amar Nik Abdullah, who said that the situation isn’t “serious” yet.
He added that flooding in the districts of Rantau Panjang and Pasir Mas is normal as the state is currently experiencing rainy weather.
It’s just the early stage of flood. When the rain stops, the flood water will recede.
“The flood will only be deemed as serious if the water flows from the mountain, a phenomenon known as Hujan Hulu (upstream rain),” he told Sinar Harian.
However, Amar assured that rescue and evacuation works are still being carried out and food has been given to the flood victims, adding that the necessary steps to address flooding began in October.
Criticised for remarks
Unsurprisingly, Amar’s remarks didn’t go down well with netizens, who slammed him for his tone-deaf response towards the natural disaster.
“Pity the Kelantanese people. Voted for the same party but have to same the issue of flooding for another 5 years.”
“Maybe it will be considered serious if their Mercedes were to be drowned in floodwater.”
“Congratulations, people of Kelantan. You voted for the same government.”
What do you think of Amar’s statement? Let us know in the comments!
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