BY: NAZLI IBRAHIM
KLANG, OCT 18: In the midst of the State Government’s hard work to ensure safety of people living in areas at risk of flooding due to the high tide phenomenon, there are still certain parties throwing around unfounded allegations.
Dato’ Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, who expressed his disappointment with these parties, said that the State Government is well prepared in advance this time around to face the phenomenon.
“We are trying to prevent any calamities. We have not only given an additional RM4.3 million budget, but in fact, work has also already started. However, it is impossible that we can complete the work in one day. We have to ensure the bunds are according to technical specifications in order to be strong enough.
“This is to prevent the bunds from breaking again. However, the media has been reporting that there has been no action taken. Also that I have not gone down to the ground and do not understand the problems faced by rakyat.
“I have visited this village alone, twice. Just now I was in Kampung Sungai Keramat for almost an hour talking to villagers. It is my responsibility to protect their welfare,” said Mohamed Azmin.
He said that in his speech to 53 families of Kampung Tok Muda who are now placed at the Kampung Tok Muda Multipurpose Hall Temporary Relief Centre on October 18.
The State Government has actually received praises from flood victims who commented on the approval of additional budget for upgrading works as well as the government’s quick action in addressing the high tide this time around.
According to them, the quick action taken by State Government in making preparations for the phenomenon allowed them to relocate faster and reduce property loss.
“We have been informed much earlier. So we were prepared before moving and we managed to place our things on higher ground to prevent or reduce damages.
“The moving process was also not chaotic and everything has been pre-arranged by State Government such as food, comfortable beds and other amenities,” said villager Ahmad Azahari Soraji, 45.
Abdul Kahar Saroji, 49, praised State Government and Sementa Assemblyman Dr Daroyah Alwi who were very concerned with their welfare.
“Since the flood, our YB (Yang Berhormat) has come down to visit us many times to help us to move,” said the business owner.
When asked about his loss, Abdul Kahar expected it to be lower than the amount he lost before due to early preparations.
“I have not seen the condition of my house this morning, but I expect it will not be that bad as we had been informed early and most of our things have been placed on high grounds,” he said.
Meanwhile, another victim, Khariah Azlina Khairuddin, 21 thanked the State Government for making sure that they are comfortable during this time.
“Praise be to Allah, we have been provided with a comfortable place complete with amenities. I slept well last night,” said the private sector employee.
