RM50m to be channelled to flood victims in Kelantan - PM

 

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has announced an allocation of RM50 million as immediate aid to flood victims in Kelantan.

He said RM1,000 will be channelled to each family impacted by the floods.

"For victims placed at the PPS (temporary evacuation centres) and other areas, we have approved an initial allocation of RM50 million through the National Disaster Management Agency.

"Some have asked if there would be additional (allocations). Yes, there will be once the damage and losses (caused by the floods) have been identified and verified by the officers in charge," he said during a press conference in Pasir Mas, Kelantan today.

Earlier, Anwar visited Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Agama Lati to check on the flood victims sheltered there.

Kelantan Menteri Besar Mohd Nassuruddin Daud and Natural Resources and Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad were also present.

PLSB project

Meanwhile, Anwar also urged the Kelantan state government to expedite the land acquisition process to enable Phase 2 of the Sungai Golok Integrated River Basin Development (PLSB) project.

"According to the PLSB plan, Phase 2 of the project will take years to complete. To speed up the project, l have urged the state government to expedite the land acquisition process so that the project can start next month.

"We have to take immediate steps towards Phase 2, to reduce the pressure of floods, especially in Rantau Panjang which faces floods up to four times a year," he said.

Asked if PLSB was facing troubles, given that Rantau Panjang frequently flooded since it started, Anwar responded that the project was ongoing.

"The Sungai Golok PLSB project has not yet been completed. It's important to understand that the first phase involves embankment and securing the right bank area.

"That is why we want to expedite Phase 2 to safeguard Rantau Panjang," he said. - Mkini