I’m here, let Najib have his break, says Muhyiddin over flood relief efforts

Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin says Datuk Seri Najib Razak also needs his break, following criticism over the timing of his holiday abroad amid the worst floods in the country's history. – The Malaysian Insider file pic, December 25, 2014.

Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said there was no need for the public to worry over the absence of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak who is currently abroad, as the nation faces its worst floods in history.

The deputy prime minister said he was monitoring relief efforts for flood victims, adding that he had informed Najib to have faith in him to handle the situation.

"We must be fair. The prime minister also has his time for a break as he has been working so hard," Muhyiddin told reporters this evening.

"He is also a human being. I told him not to worry and to have trust in me, we will manage the issue in whatever way we can," he said.

He added that floods were an annual occurrence in Malaysia, but this year was much more challenging.

"There is no need for Najib to come back immediately," Muhyiddin said when asked whether the Prime Minister would be making a speedy return to Malaysia.

"If I cannot handle the issue, then I will call Najib to return to Malaysia," he quipped.

Muhyiddin said government agencies involved in flood operations have been told to mobilise all available assets and manpower.

"However, there are certain factors which are beyond our control, as adverse weather conditions have been hampering our operations," he said.

He said he received a detailed briefing from the National Security Council shortly after his return to Malaysia yesterday.

"I have instructed the NSC to do everything that needs to be done in order to save and evacuated the flood victims in affected areas."

He said if necessary, the government was prepared to spend money and hire additional equipment and assets from the private sector to facilitate operations.

"I will have a meeting with the NSC on Saturday and I have told the secretariat to inform me if there is any additional assets or equipment which is lacking.

"Saving lives is our top priority, even if it means the government's expenditure will increase slightly," he added.

- TMI