Written by Sharika Tasnim
Edited by : Farah Liyana
On November 27, Malaysia's meteorological department issued a red alert, predicting continuous heavy rain in the states of Kelantan, Pahang, and Terengganu. | Credit: Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR, 30th November 2024: Malaysia is facing one of its worst flood disasters in a decade, with over 90,000 people displaced and authorities warning the situation could worsen in the coming days.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has directed all cabinet members to suspend their leave and prioritize flood relief efforts. "All ministers have been asked to continue their duties and go down to the ground now," Anwar said in a video shared by state broadcaster Bernama TV, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
The northeastern state of Kelantan, bordering Thailand, has been the hardest hit, with neighboring Terengganu also severely affected. As of November 28, 94,778 people have sought refuge in 527 temporary shelters across nine states. The National Disaster Command Centre has reported three fatalities but provided limited details on the deaths.
Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi warned that the floods could surpass the devastation of the 2014 “bah kuning” (yellow flood), which displaced over 200,000 people and resulted in 21 deaths. "This time, the flood is expected to be worse than in 2014," Zahid said after an emergency meeting of the National Disaster Management Committee.
High sea tides expected next week could exacerbate the flooding, preventing swollen rivers from draining into the South China Sea. The Malaysian Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for continuous heavy rain in Kelantan, Pahang, and Terengganu, forecasting dangerous conditions until November 29.
Videos circulating on social media show rivers overflowing, cars submerged, and homes inundated. In Kelantan’s capital, Kota Bharu, residents have started moving belongings to higher ground. Local assembly members have adjourned legislative sessions early to assist with relief efforts.
One tragic incident involved a Kelantan man who was electrocuted while trying to unplug a washing machine as floodwaters reached about one meter, according to Malay Mail.
National railway operator KTM has suspended seven out of 11 train services in Kelantan due to submerged tracks, adding to the logistical challenges of the crisis.
The flooding has also impacted southern Thailand, where four people have died, and over 240,000 households have been affected.
With Malaysia's monsoon season expected to continue until January, authorities remain on high alert, mobilizing over 82,000 security personnel, rescue boats, four-wheel-drive vehicles, and helicopters to aid those affected. —TBC
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