More than 13,000 people have been evacuated in Malaysia’s southern state of Johor as severe flooding continues to wreak havoc just days before the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations. The heavy rains, which began on March 19, have submerged homes and disrupted preparations across six districts.
As of this morning, 95 temporary relief centres have been established, sheltering 13,089 individuals from 3,749 families, according to the Johor Disaster Management Committee. Johor Bahru recorded the highest number of evacuees, followed by Kluang, Pontian, Kota Tinggi, Kulai, and Batu Pahat. The flooding has caused major road closures, with rivers such as Sungai Lenik, Sungai Pulai, and Sungai Skudai rising to dangerous levels.
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Johor’s Chief Minister, Onn Hafiz Ghazi, expressed concern over the widespread damage, noting the hardships faced by residents who have lost their belongings just before the festive season. He reassured that the state government is prioritizing welfare and assistance for those affected.
Residents shared stories of immense losses. In Kampung Pasir Tebrau, Nordiana Moidoo, a 39-year-old accountant, said her home was nearly submerged, with only the roof visible. “Everything else is gone,” she lamented, estimating her losses at over RM10,000, including festive preparations. Jefri Kamarulzaman, whose family was evacuated, said his wife’s tailoring business was destroyed along with their children’s school supplies.
The floods have also disrupted schools, with 20 affected across five districts. Some schools have been fully inundated or converted into relief centres, forcing students and teachers to adapt to the challenging conditions.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation, with more rain expected in the coming days, raising concerns over further disruptions and damage.
