Ravaging floods hitting many states: 500 CRSM volunteers on disaster relief mission

The Crisis Relief Squad of MCA (CRSM) has been fully engaged in disaster relief since non-stop rain fall deluged areas. More than 500 volunteers have been mobilised across the country and supplies in excess of RM200,000 have been handed to provide assistance to disaster-hit areas. Dry foodstuffs and other supplies were delivered to victims. CRSM also assisted in relocation efforts besides distributing anti-Covid-19 pandemic supplies. Our volunteers also aided in clean-up works and post-disaster reconstruction.

The monsoon season had wrought say non-stop heavy showers which led to severe floods across various states in Malaysia. According to National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA)’s report, as of 13 Jan 2021, five states were hit with the worst calamities. They are: Pahang, Johor, Kelantan, Sabah and Sarawak whereby 19,647 victims were moved to 188 temporary evacuation centres.

The Movement Control Order (MCO) has been implemented in six states across the country thereby posing challenges unto volunteers who are helping out in flood disaster relief

We call upon NGOs to participate in disaster relief and to adhere to the SOPs at all times to curtail the Covid-19 outbreak from spreading. Observe physical distancing, don face masks, abide with the instructions issued by the government and local authority. Additionally, at all times, volunteers must always safeguard their own personal safety, pay attention to personal and environmental hygiene, attire in personal protective equipment such as rubber gloves, face shields when helping out in post-disaster cleaning up works.

CRSM will apply to the authorities to deliver supplies to the disaster-hit areas, and cooperate with local volunteers in the distribution of supplies besides cleaning of homes.

The government is urged to not ignore disadvantaged groups encountering economic difficulties. Besides providing financial assistance, including creating job opportunities for the unemployed and drawing up training plans or conducting training session, the government should also enhance their work abilities and opportunities to ensure that every family has sufficient income.

Besides battling the contagion, the government cannot ignore the spread of other infectious diseases that may occur after the floods subside, such as dengue fever and cholera. Also, the government and rakyat must work closely together to strengthen and ensure local sanitisation controls and safety.  

Additionally, CRSM in collaboration with GoCare's #BeMYHero Awareness Campaign, is currently raising funds for flood victims. As of 13 Jan 2021, a total of RM68,000 has been raised, far exceeding the target of RM50,000 which was set a few days ago. With a further RM150,000 raised by MCA, the donations totals to RM210,000 whereby RM90,000 will be used to purchase disaster relief materials while RM120,000 will be used for post-disaster cleaning-up works and reconstruction.

Nevertheless, we appeal to the public to continue to donate generously, and to provide more care and aid to assist more victims. All donations will be used for post-disaster reconstruction and recovery assistance.

Anyone can become a hero in Malaysia. I hope that more people will participate in this event to fulfill the mission of #BeMYHero and display our love and support for Malaysia.

For more details, please visit www.gocare.org.my

Dato’ Natalie Lim Chong Ly
Crisis Relief Squad of MCA National Chief

-MCA online-