IT is not necessary for the Government to declare a climate emergency just yet although several states in the country have experienced flooding, said newly-minted Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
“There are certain processes and evaluations that have to be carried out before such a declaration can be made. For the moment, there is no need to declare a climate emergency because the situation (flooding) is still under control,” Bernama quoted Saifuddin as saying.
According to Saifuddin, the flood operation is under control and running well, with reports submitted regularly including during yesterday’s (Dec 21) Cabinet meeting.
Prior to this, Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman had submitted an emergency motion to Dewan Rakyat Speaker Datuk Johari Abdul in accordance with Standing Orders 18(1) and 18(2), requesting that the Dewan Rakyat declare a climate emergency and discuss immediate flood mitigation measures to lessen the damage to the country, particularly along the east coast of the Peninsula.
Saifuddin added that he had provided additional air assets to Kelantan and Terengganu. He also urged locals in flood-affected areas to cooperate with the authorities.
“If you are instructed to evacuate, don’t delay because it could be life-threatening.”
Earlier today, Saifuddin handed out aid to flood victims at a relief centre (PPS) in Alor Pasir. Kelantan police chief Datuk Muhamad Zaki Harun and Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Shamsul Anuar Nasarah were also present. – Dec 22, 2022
