Kuala Lumpur, December 02, 2024 – The Europe Today: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on the private sector to contribute actively to flood relief efforts, emphasizing the importance of both financial support and the deployment of aid machinery to assist affected communities.
Speaking at the monthly assembly of the Prime Minister’s Department for December 2024, Anwar highlighted the significant contributions already made by government-linked investment companies (GLICs) such as Khazanah Nasional Bhd, Petronas, and Permodalan Nasional Bhd (PNB), whose subsidiaries have mobilized to provide relief. Local banks have also taken proactive measures to support recovery initiatives.
“In the current situation, it is good not only to contribute funds but also to deploy machinery. Let private companies from Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, and Penang also get involved on the ground,” Anwar urged.
The event was attended by Deputy Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, as well as Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.
Government Response to Widespread Flooding
Anwar assured that the government has fully mobilized aid machinery, integrating civil service resources, relevant agencies, and community groups to ensure timely assistance reaches those in need.
Floods have severely impacted the nation since last week, with Kelantan being the hardest-hit state. As of today, 85,778 victims from 26,781 families are sheltered in 251 temporary relief centres (PPS).
Other affected states include Terengganu, Perak, Johor, Kedah, Pahang, Negeri Sembilan, Perlis, and Melaka, bringing the total number of flood victims to 138,052 across nine states.
Call for Nationwide Solidarity
Prime Minister Anwar underscored the importance of solidarity in addressing the crisis, urging businesses and individuals to join government efforts in alleviating the burden on affected families. The involvement of private companies, he said, would bolster the efficiency and reach of relief operations.
The Prime Minister’s remarks reflect a nationwide call to action as Malaysia confronts the challenges posed by widespread flooding, aiming to ensure swift recovery and support for affected communities.