BALING, July 6 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob’s announcement on an immediate aid including the provision of RM1,000 in cash to heads of households affected by the floods here was welcomed by the flood victims.
A senior citizen woman, Puteh Daud, 68, said in a situation where many residents were tested by the disaster, the announcement could to some extent help ease the burden faced.
“For me, I am grateful regardless of how big or small the amount is.
“My house was badly affected. I have lived here for 30 years, this is the first time it was hit by a severe flood like this, that’s why if there is help to repair the house, I will be very happy,” she told Bernama here today
Puteh, who has been at the relief centre (PPS) of Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Jerai for two nights, said with the condition of her house which was disintegrating at the moment, she did not want to risk her safety.
“So I hope they can fix it immediately so that I have a safe place to live as well as basic household appliances, especially cooking utensils because everything has been washed away by the floods,” said Puteh who lives in Kampung Bukit Iboi near here.
Another flood victim, Zaharah Isa, 62, from Kampung Jerai, said she accepted all forms of donations with an open heart.
“My house especially the kitchen was submerged in water, nothing was saved. When I heard that someone was willing to help ease my burden, I felt happy and very grateful.
“It will be better if there is a new housing assistance elsewhere, I am worried about living in my current house,” she said.
Another victim, Che Ahmad Hassan, 68, from Kampung Padang Empang Iboi said so far some flood victims have received RM1,000 cash assistance from the Baling Member of Parliament.
“I was happy when I heard the Prime Minister announced about the assistance, but I hope there will be help to repair the damage to the house,” he said.
His house was also affected by the flood last Sunday and even the coop with the chickens was also washed away.
Earlier, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced the provision of immediate aid to about 1,490 flood victims involving 112 heads of households (KIR).
The aid for every KIR affected by the floods includes compassionate payment of RM1,000, basic necessities aid of RM2,500, electrical appliances aid of RM500 and for house repairs.
