GEORGE TOWN, Nov 6 – Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein visiting flood victims at Flat Taman Penang Free School with Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) chief, General Tan Sri Raja Mohamed Affandi Raja Mohamed Noor, here this morning with distributing aid and survival kits to Penang flood victims.
“The observation from the air found that the flood situation in the state has recovered and the flood water has receded. Our focus is on post-flood work such as clearing blocked roads and helping in cleaning up the affected areas. I have urged the Army chief, General Tan Sri Zulkiple Kassim and the Royal Engineer’s Army Regiment to repair the damaged houses and infrastructure,” he said.
Among the items given out to the flood victims were mattresses, water pumps, blankets, baby diapers, mineral water and canned food. Hishammuddin said the ATM is prepared to mobilise its personnel and assets at any time for flood relief operation. He also added that the recent flash floods should serve as a lesson to the Penang state government.
“We should look for the real cause of the floods so that we can prevent a repeat,” he added. About 200 ATM officers and personnel under the Second Infantry Division are involved in the post-flood operation in Penang. Seven people were killed in the massive flash floods on Nov 4 (Saturday). — PN
