Three dead, thousands evacuated; Malaysia alerts of worst floods in a decade

Floods are frequent on the east coast of peninsular Malaysia during the monsoon period between October and March, but this week’s severe rain has caused major evacuations, primarily in the northeastern state of Kelantan, which borders Thailand.

According to the National Disaster Command Centre, three individuals have perished, and 94,778 people have been evacuated to 527 temporary shelters throughout nine states, with Kelantan and nearby Terengganu being the hardest hit. It did not disclose any other information on the deceased.

Videos released on social media showed overflowing rivers, flooded cars, and flood-damaged homes.

The Meteorological Department predicted heavy rain in eight states through Saturday, with dangerous levels of rain forecast for various districts in Kelantan and Terengganu.

Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, the deputy prime minister and chairman of the National Disaster Management Committee, issued a warning on Thursday, predicting that the floods would be even more devastating than those in 2014, which forced nearly a quarter of a million people from their homes.

“Given the gravity of the situation, all parties have been mobilized to ensure the safety and welfare of flood victims,” he told Bernama.

According to Ahmad Zahid, the government has dispatched around 82,000 security troops, rescue boats, four-wheel drive vehicles, and helicopters.

The national railway operator, KTM Berhad, announced on Facebook that flooding had suspended nine train routes on the east coast.

Kamarudin Md Noor, head of Kelantan’s tourism, culture, arts, and heritage committee, has faced criticism for advocating surfing as a way to attract tourists during the rainy season.

The objective is to assist businesses damaged by the monsoon season, but he has received criticism online, with others describing his statements as callous and embarrassing.