Fun-filled activities while waiting out floods

Staying positive: Flood victims playing checkers at a relief centre at the Mersing Polytechnic. — Bernama

MERSING: Flood victims taking temporary shelter at SK Bandar Mersing here are occupying their free time with various psychoeducational and psychotherapeutic activities.

One of them, Siti Rohani Abdul Jalil from Kampung Bahagia, tried out batik dyeing and embroidery.

She said apart from relieving her boredom, the activities had improved her relationship with fellow villagers who had also been evacuated to the same flood relief centre.

“As someone who works in shifts, I did not have time to get to know my neighbours.

“Even though this flood is a disaster, it’s a blessing in disguise for me to get to know them better through fun activities like this,” added the 37-year-old nurse, who works at Hospital Mersing.

Security guard Shariah Talib, 44, took the opportunity to enjoy some family time with her children by taking part in the activities, thanking the Social Welfare Department for organising the activities.

“It’s fun to be with the children, even if it’s just colouring posters or playing Uno with them,” she told Bernama.

Ten-year-old Puteri Nurain Kamila Megat Hasni, who has been at the centre for three days, said she had never felt bored because the activities were interesting.

Besides playing games, the primary school pupil also revise her lessons together with her classmates who were also at the shelter.

Johor Social Welfare Department director Mohamad Hapil said the department is responsible for providing psychological support, crisis intervention and activities for flood victims.

He said the activities could help flood victims cope emotionally.