Flash floods: Time to rise above the blame game

Politicians and the public must rise above the blame game during this difficult time. It is a time for unity; to better deal with the disaster and provide the flood victims with quick, efficient aid.

We must be reminded that a single human alone is powerless in the face of nature’s wrath; but together, we stand a chance to minimise the devastation wrought and quickly rebuild destroyed homes.

Many rescue units, including the police, army, fire brigade, civil defence force, non-governmental organisations and private enterprises have swiftly mobilised to flood-hit areas, truly exemplifying the spirit of “Keluarga Malaysia”.

Homes destroyed, and the safety of family under threat, victims are bound to feel more than a little dissatisfaction waiting for rescue. I empathise with them, and I hope the authorities could swiftly step in with some relief.

Aside from Selangor, the three states on the East Coast are also badly affected by floods. The authorities must quickly disburse cash aid and arrange for rations and clean water to these areas.

We need to show more empathy to the flood victims who are living in fear after floods disrupted their lives and livelihoods.

I appreciate Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Ismail Sabri’s courage to take responsibility in admitting the weakness of the government in flood management. This is the collective responsibility of all governmental departments, therefore, it is pointless to try to pass the blame.

At the moment, the federal and state governments are coordinating with each other to accelerate the disbursement of cash aids for flood victims.

I urge related government and banking agencies to set up kiosks to facilitate the cash aid application and documentation process in order to help victims rebuild and replace faster post-disaster.

I would also like to remind certain individuals to stop bringing religion into the topic of floods. You are not only not contributing to rescue efforts, but further fragmenting the people.

Chua Hock Kuan

MCA Youth National Vice Chairperson