Malaysia is grappling with severe flooding, displacing over 94,000 people across nine states, with Kelantan and Terengganu hardest hit. The National Disaster Command Centre reported yesterday three fatalities and mass evacuations to 527 shelters.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has frozen ministers’ leave, urging them to assist on the ground. Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi warned the disaster might surpass the 2014 floods, which displaced a quarter-million people. Over 82,000 security personnel, rescue boats, and helicopters have been deployed.
The Meteorological Department forecasts heavy rains until Saturday, heightening concerns in affected regions. Meanwhile, criticism has mounted over Kelantan’s tourism chairman promoting monsoon-season activities like surfing amid the crisis.
Floods are a recurring challenge during Malaysia’s monsoon season, but this year’s severity has raised alarms nationwide.
