TWO WEEKS ON, FLOOD-HIT RESIDENTS BEGIN CLEAN-UP

ALOR SETAR, Dec 9 (Bernama) -- Two weeks after the devastating floods, affected residents in this district have begun returning to their homes to carry out cleaning and repair work.

A check by Bernama at Anak Bukit, Kepala Batas and Gunung Keriang, among the hardest-hit areas, found that clean-up efforts were assisted by volunteers from various agencies and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

Tan Chiu Wong, 54, from Anak Bukit, said his house, where he lives with his wife and two daughters, was submerged since Nov 29. Though the house was filled with silt and sand, he was grateful that its condition was not as dire as some others in the neighbourhood.

“During the floods, we stayed with family in Jitra and returned home three days ago. It was heartbreaking to open the door and see the house filled with silt, sand, and some belongings that we couldn’t save,” he said.

“Cleaning up the silt has been exhausting, but we’re grateful to volunteers from other districts who came to help. They sprayed water and scrubbed away the silt stuck to the floor. We flood victims are truly worn out, especially mentally,” he told Bernama here today.

Tan also expressed gratitude to NGOs and individuals who provided aid, including food, drinks, and essential supplies, which were a lifeline for flood victims.

“Although the clean-up is done, what we urgently need now is financial aid. Most of the flood victims here are struggling financially. I hope the government can consider providing compassionate assistance to all those affected,” he said.

Meanwhile, Teoh Seng Chuan, 58, from Gunung Keriang, said he and his family were still in the process of cleaning their home and discarding belongings damaged by floodwaters, which had risen to waist level.

“For the past few days, many volunteers have come to help residents here, bringing food and drinks. However, we decided to clean our house ourselves as we’re still able to manage,” he said.

“All I ask is for the government to look into providing financial assistance. Many flood victims here need funds to replace damaged belongings and purchase necessities,” he added.

-- BERNAMA