[UPDATED] Floods claim 54 lives, two still missing

KUALA LUMPUR – One of Malaysia’s worst flood disasters in living memory has claimed a total of 54 lives, as two victims remain missing.

Bukit Aman’s Internal Security and Public Order Department director Datuk Hazani Ghazali said the death toll comprised casualties from Selangor (25), Pahang (21), Kelantan (4), Sabah (3), and Negri Sembilan (1).

In a press conference at the Bukit Aman police headquarters this afternoon, he said two victims from Pahang are still missing.

On the floods in Segamat, Johor, he said “everything is under control”. 

“Residents there have had experience (with floods) before this, so it shouldn’t be a problem at all.

“There are 3,737 victims so far. We foresee that there will be an increase in flood victims as it is still raining. At the moment, 52 PPS have been opened (in Johor).” 

He added that as of 12pm today, there are still 13,322 victims at temporary relief centres (PPS) nationwide and 172 PPS remain open in seven states.

“In the event of a flood disaster, it is always followed by road closures due to stagnant waters or landslides. There have been 53 road closures as of yesterday.  

“We have also mobilised various assets with 6,042 personnel during the flood rescue operation.”

Meanwhile, he said, the police will be proposing to the government to station at least five boats at each of the 157 district police headquarters nationwide to provide rapid response in the event of floods. 

“This proposal will be following the floods that hit several states on December 18 and, God willing, we will propose it to the government.”

He also said that the force is focusing its efforts in five states – Pahang, Terengganu, Kelantan, parts of Johor, and the east coast of Sabah – during the floods. – The Vibes, January 5, 2022