This giant game of checkers is among the activities organised by the Social Welfare Dept at Mersing flood relief centres to help evacuees cope with displacement. – BERNAMApic
MERSING: Flood victims currently housed at a temporary relief centre in SK Bandar Mersing fill their free time with various educational and therapeutic activities arranged by the Social Welfare Department.
Apart from relieving her boredom, Siti Rohani Abdul Jalil of Kampung Bahagia said the activities such as batik dyeing and embroidery strengthened her relationships with fellow villagers seeking shelter at the centre.
"As someone who works in shifts, I did not have time to get to know my neighbours before. Even though this flood is a disaster, it’s a blessing in disguise to meet them through fun activities like this,” said the 37-year-old nurse, who works at Hospital Mersing.
Security guard Shariah Talib, 44, took the opportunity to participate in the activities with her children.
She said she was grateful to the department because, despite the flooding, she could now at least spend quality time with her family.
"It's also fun to be with the children, even if it's just colouring posters or playing games," she added.
Puteri Nurain Kamila Megat Hasni, 10, said she was not bored during her three days at the centre because of the variety of activities arranged by the department.
Besides participating in various games, the Standard Four student was given the opportunity to revise her lessons and said it was even more fun as she could do so with her classmates who were also relocated to the centre.
Johor Social Welfare Dept director Mohamad Hapil said it was responsible for providing psychological support, crisis intervention and activities to victims.
He said the activities could help victims cope with the displacement and maintain their emotional stability while they are at the relief centres. – Bernama
