Over 4,000 flood relief centres being prepared
Malaysiakini.com
Nov 24, 2006

Malaysia will set up over 4,000 disaster relief centres nationwide to house some one million evacuees ahead of the anticipated year-end flood season, deputy premier Najib Abdul Razak said today.

"We have made all the necessary arrangements in preparation for the flood season at the end of the year," Najib told reporters after meeting with the government's disaster management and relief committee.

"We have reminded all related agencies and departments that all rescue and relief operations carried out have to be prompt and reach the target group which is the flood victims," he said.

He also called on those living in flood-prone areas, traditionally on Malaysia's east coast at the end of the year, to evacuate on the order of authorities.

Najib said there were indications of a higher than average rainfall in peninsular Malaysia in coming weeks.

In mid-October, a heavier-than-usual rainy season inundated the northern states of Perlis, Kedah and the tourist island of Penang, prompting the evacuation of hundreds of people and disrupting celebrations for the Muslim Hari Raya festival.

Malaysia has so far this year distributed up to RM80.5 million in financial assistance to victims of natural disasters, Najib said.
    
Copyright © 1999-2006 Mkini Dotcom Sdn Bhd