SABAK BERNAM, March 6 — The RM500 assistance channelled by the state government to victims of the northeast monsoon tidal surge has helped ease residents' burden to some extent.
Kampung Belia resident Fazil Abdul Razak, 63, said the contribution is very meaningful, particularly in helping cover daily necessities and prepare for Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
He said the flooding that struck the area earlier caused severe damage, but the assistance received has helped reduce some of the difficulties.
“I am grateful because this assistance helps my family and me. The flood damage was indeed quite extensive, but Alhamdulillah (God be praised), it has eased our burden a little,” Fazil told Media Selangor during the Bantuan Wang Ihsan (BWI) presentation ceremony at the Sabak Bernam District and Land Office Complex yesterday.
The retiree added that his house was flooded following heavy rain and a tidal surge, forcing him to move to a temporary relief centre at Dewan Haji Dorani for five days.
“Once we returned home, we had to clean the house, which was filled with mud. At that time, it was really sad to see the condition of the house.
“Many items in the house were submerged in water, including furniture and work equipment. After the water receded, it took us nearly a week to clean the house,” he said.
Another aid recipient, Kampung Belia 2 resident Tormoji Sairi, 75, said the contribution was greatly appreciated as it would help cover household expenses.
“For me, I would like to say thank you and Alhamdulillah. I did not expect to be called to receive this assistance,” he said.
The smallholder farmer said his house was also inundated by floodwater up to knee level, damaging several household items.
Tormoji said the aid received would be used for household needs and preparations for the upcoming Aidilfitri celebrations.
The tidal surge and strong winds incident in November last year caused flooding in several coastal areas in the Sabak Bernam district, including Sekinchan, Parit Lima, Sungai Besar, and Sungai Air Tawar.
