TEMERLOH: The people in this district are on alert for the second wave of flooding, says the chairman of the area’s Cage Fish Farmers Cooperative.
Ibrahim Hussien, said farmers have securely tied each cage to prevent them from being swept away by the strong currents of the Pahang River.
He said that during the monsoon season, strong water currents and the threat of drifting wood could damage 4,921 cage slots owned by 118 members in the district.
"Mature fish will be sold at a price lower than the market to avoid significant losses if the cages leak or if the fish die due to severe flooding," he added.
Ibrahim, who lives in Kampung Bangau, has also packed important items and documents because his residence is frequently flooded.
"There aren't many items left after several floods. Most of them are plastic items to avoid losses during floods," he said.
Shamsul Sabri Abu Bakar, 38, from Kampung Bangau Tanjung, said that during the Northeast Monsoon, farmers tie each cage securely and ensure the cage nets are not leaking.
"We don't take the fish out of the cages, we just have to ensure not to overfeed them," he said.
Meanwhile, 40-year-old restaurant owner Ismail Abdullah hopes the second wave does not bring more severe flooding.
"During the first wave recently, the water was just five steps away from reaching the top of the shop. We have to be cautious during this second wave. The elders say if it's been 10 years, we have to be prepared for major flooding," he added.
