Malaysians are no beginner to flood, having their shelters damaged and livelihood destroyed; and to desperate extents, the majority has claimed to be numb whenever this phenomenon makes its annual appearance. In fact, circumstances have trained them overtime to adopt and adapt to this very disastrous natural disaster. Though being sunny and vibrant all year round, this culprit to many Malaysians’ nightmare typically pays its visit amidst monsoon season which takes place in two distinct periods per annum and vary across destinations — from May to September in the south-west and from November to March in the north-east. Heads up to those planning for a vacation in Malaysia, these are the months you need to stay away from if you wish to make the most out of your trip to a tropical country.
An intense downpour in Petaling Jaya, Section 51a precisely resulted in a thigh-level flash flood just two days ago (20th March 2021) destructing the operation of a food court putting hawkers’ businesses at stake. Adding insult to the injuries of 60 hawkers in Medan Selera Jalan 223 amidst such an unprecedented pandemic period, they claimed to have struck similar flooding events numerous times way back then. “In December, some of our refrigerators became faulty due to the floodwaters,” stressed one of the hawkers, suggesting their continuous battle with the flood. Victims began reaching out to relevant local councils for immediate relief, nonetheless, a response has yet to be issued, leaving them to pick up the pieces on their own. Otherwise, they should also consider a metal roof installation which could potentially reduce flood likelihood.
Rakan Muda
This body initiated by Malaysia’s former Ministry of Youth and Sports YB Syed Saddiq bin Syed Abdul Rahman aspires to gather youths who are keen to support the nation’s development goals, in this case particularly, to provide assistance to flood-affected victims across the nation. Those seeking goodwill can participate by donating clothes and other fundamental necessities (biscuits, milk, rice, bread, etc.) to those in need of survival. The best part about this movement is that it operates all year round even in absence of ongoing flood, it helps volunteers prepare for what is about to transpire, making immediate response possible when demanded.
To help, give them a holler here or donate at Pusat Bantuan Misi Banjir, Galeri KBS, Aras Bawah (Ground Floor), Menara KBS, Kementerian Belia dan Sukan Malaysia, Presint 4, Putrajaya. Do good and good will come to you.
Prior Planning Are Deemed Most Crucial
Suppose the citizens have adapted to somewhat scheduled flooding events, politicians in duty are suggested to behave in accordance as well. If their preparations pertaining to disaster relief were not carried out months ahead, citizens’ livelihood may be at critical risk. Flood takes place in varying levels depending on the intensity of each downpour, and if governmental bodies were to start planning a few days prior, it wouldn’t be very time-effective; otherwise, relief may not be distributed equally.
Perform A Thorough Research
Gather all members of the bodies involved to carry out a profound research on areas of the nation that are most flood-vulnerable, not saying to isolate the remaining areas but allocate more budget to those whose flood impacts are relatively disastrous to the extent where their shelters are badly damaged. This can be done through interviewing neighborhoods regarding the number of times they have experienced a major flood event, the impact it brings and the measures they take to pick up the pieces. Insights collected will give clarity on what steps to approach next.
Budget Allocation
Post-research, allocate budget to determine the elements to be included in the disaster relief such as basic amenities (make it a priority), monetary donations, relief centers for victims to execute from their affected homes, paramedical teams to aid those injured. The said measures are to be materialized amidst the event and after the event submerged, there should be a set of distinctive measures aiming to resolve the aftermath. Politicians could consider effective procedures that can effectively reduce flood likelihood or delay its occurrence, allowing their people to take necessary steps before the flood comes rushing in. While total elimination of flood is almost impossible, building metal roofers for those residing in rather rural regions whose roofing structure is typically not sturdy enough to resist strong wind amid an intense downpour is another thing politicians can provide for aid. Metal roofing Malaysia comprises experts who know best how to help.
D-Day
Gather all resources and prepare for immediate response. Set up relief centers promptly and allow volunteers in assisting victims to safely evacuate from their homes. Observe their wellbeing and allow paramedical teams to perform their duty on those who require medical assistance. Bear in mind that sufficient medication and equipment are needed as some injuries can be highly fatal such as drowning and electrical shocks. Then let families settle down on their respective designated spots in the relief center and start distributing basic amenities. Last but not least, distribute monetary donations for each families’ breadwinners and advise them on the best way of utilizing it to avoid unnecessary spending.
Bottom Line
Governmental officials who are equipped with unlimited resources should pay their utmost attention to serving their people who rely on quality assistance amid such a desperate situation. Long story short, plan ahead and be fair to all.
