Number of flood victims continue to rise in Johor

Army personnel manning the main bridge at Kota Tinggi, which has been closed off to the public due to the floods in the district. (Photo by THOMAS YONG/The Star)

JOHOR BARU: The number of flood evacuees in Johor have continued to increase to over 26,000.

According to the state disaster management committee, a total 26,633 victims have been recorded as of 12pm on Thursday (March 2) compared to 25,213 at 8am.

"At present, 193 temporary flood relief centres are providing shelter to flood evacuees with the most number of the centres focused in the worst-hit Segamat district.

"In Segamat, 8,053 victims are placed at 60 centres with SJK(C) Kampung Tengah having the highest number of victims at 500 people from Kampung Tengah," the statement said.

All 10 districts statewide are hit by floods with Kluang recording 5,470 evacuees, Batu Pahat (3,266), Kota Tinggi (2,912), Muar (2,200), Johor Baru (2,089), Kulai (956), Tangkak (932), Mersing (489) and Pontian (257).

Bekok assemblyman Tan Chong urged residents of Chaah to remain patient while the authorities sort out utility issues following the bad floods.

"The water supply in Chaah has been disrupted as the underground pipes were damaged.

"I have contacted Ranhill SAJ and Tenaga Nasional to conduct repairs as soon as possible as the flood victims need to clean up their homes once the floodwaters receded," he said on his Facebook page.

Tan said aside from flood rescue efforts, his team has been distributing food and drinks to those affected.

He said more volunteers are also needed and encouraged those interested to contact his office at 012-751 0485.

Checks by The Star at Kota Tinggi also showed flood waters rising in the town area with several roads not accessible.

Those affected by floods are urged to contact the Malaysian Emergency Response Services 999 (MERS 999) for assistance.