Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced on Friday that all Malaysian cabinet members are barred from taking leave following severe floods that have displaced over 90,000 people. “All ministers have been asked to continue their duties and go down to the ground now,” Anwar stated in a video shared by state broadcaster Bernama TV. When asked if ministerial leave had been canceled, Anwar confirmed, “Yes.”
Torrential Rains Trigger Mass Evacuations
The monsoon season, spanning October to March, often brings floods to Malaysia’s east coast. However, this week’s torrential rains have caused significant damage, especially in Kelantan, near the Thailand border. According to the National Disaster Command Centre, three fatalities have been reported, and 94,778 people are currently sheltered in 527 temporary centers across nine states, with Kelantan and Terengganu being the hardest hit.
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Videos circulating on social media reveal rivers breaching their banks, vehicles submerged, and homes inundated. The Meteorological Department has predicted continued heavy rain in eight states, with dangerous rainfall levels expected in several districts of Kelantan and Terengganu until Saturday.
Comparisons to 2014 Floods
Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi warned that the disaster could surpass the severity of the 2014 floods, which displaced nearly 250,000 people. The government has mobilized over 82,000 security personnel alongside rescue boats, four-wheel-drive vehicles, and helicopters to assist in relief efforts.
Regional Impact
The flooding has also affected southern Thailand, where seven provinces have reported damage. The Thai interior ministry confirmed four deaths and over 240,000 households impacted by the disaster.