[UPDATED] Nadma denies blocking armed forces from S’gor flood rescue efforts

KUALA LUMPUR – The National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) has refuted reports that it prevented armed forces from assisting in search-and-rescue efforts in Selangor.

Nadma director-general Datuk Aminuddin Hassim said these reports are “made up” as the army and defence chiefs have both denied the matter.

“Chief of Army Tan Sri Zamrose Mohd Zain says the statement did not come from him. Zamrose also gave his assurances that he spoke to the Chief of Defence (Gen Tan Sri Affendi Buang), and he (Affendi) said it was not from him.

“So, I assume there were some who ‘created’ this story,” he said in a press conference today.

“We all have a good relationship, and I expect it to continue even after the flood disaster is over.”

Yesterday, The Rakyat Post reported that the armed forces wanted to assist flood relief efforts in Selangor on Friday, but did not get the green light from Nadma.

Quoting a source, it reported that the armed forces proceeded with relief efforts.

At the same event, special functions minister and Nadma chief Datuk Abdul Latiff Ahmad said none of the NGOs are barred from providing aid, and that the matter should not be politicised.

“Floodwaters here (Taman Sri Muda in Shah Alam) have receded from about 1m to 1ft. This is after several teams from the Environment and Water Ministry worked to pump water out of the area with the help of a portable generator provided by Tenaga Nasional Bhd, 21 pump machines and four lorries.

“We will use the same technique in areas affected by Sg Langat. Meanwhile, we also need to take into account factors such as tides and water release areas.”

Nadma has been severely criticised in its handling of the flood crisis, with many victims bemoaning the lack of swift action to address their plight.

Many residents are still stuck at their homes without electricity, clean water and food, unable to leave as the floodwaters have yet to recede completely.

Many have been posting calls for help on social media since Saturday.

So far, Selangor has recorded a death toll of 17. – The Vibes, December 21, 2021