Floodwaters have displaced thousands across Kelantan and Terengganu, with over 22,000 individuals seeking refuge in 221 temporary relief centres by late November.
In response, Johor-based organisations Yayasan Suria JB and Ihsan Johor mobilised on December 13 to deliver essential aid to flood-stricken communities in Pasir Mas, Kelantan.
“This mission is crucial to alleviate the suffering of affected families,” said James Ho, founder of Yayasan Suria JB.
Volunteers braved flooded roads and heavy rain forecasts to deliver food, cash aid, and other necessities to villages cut off by rising waters.
Flood relief mission brings hope
The relief effort focused on some of the hardest-hit areas, including Kampung Banggul Chedul, Kampung Banggulstol, and Kampung Bakat Hilir.
Over two days, the team distributed 400 food banks, RM5,250 in Ang Pows, and pledged RM9,000 for additional support.
“In Kampung Sapi, 18 families were completely cut off. We used boats and waded through knee-deep floodwaters to deliver aid,” Ho explained.
Each family received essential food supplies and RM100 in cash.
For one seamstress, the floods destroyed her sewing machines and clients’ dresses, leaving her financially devastated.
“We immediately approved a RM2,000 grant to help her restart her business, but more assistance is needed,” said Ho, calling for public donations to extend their support.
Overcoming challenges to deliver aid
The team faced challenging conditions, including contaminated floodwaters, power outages, and cases of food poisoning among volunteers.
“The floodwaters reeked of decay, and we had to deal with livestock carcasses and leeches clinging to us,” said Ho. Yet, the team pressed on, driven by the gratitude of those they helped.
“Every hardship is worth it when we see the smiles of people we assist,” he added.
Despite their dire circumstances, villagers displayed remarkable hospitality, offering hot tea and biscuits to the volunteers.
The mission concluded on December 15, but the work is far from over. Ho stressed the importance of continued public support.
“The government provides only RM1,000 annually to these families, regardless of how many floods they endure. We need more resources to help them rebuild their lives.”
Yayasan Suria JB and Ihsan Johor are committed to helping flood victims not only survive but rebuild.
“This isn’t just about aid—it’s about building friendships and showing care in the hardest of times,” said Ho.
The organisations plan to return to Kelantan as the monsoon season continues and urge the public to contribute.
Donations in cash or kind can make a critical difference in their disaster relief efforts.
For more information or to contribute, visit Yayasan Suria JB’s official channels.
Every contribution helps bring hope and relief to families facing the devastating impact of the monsoon season.
Do donate to Yayasan Suria here: https://www.yayasansuriajb.org.my/donations-and-contributions/
To Ihsan Johor here: https://www.facebook.com/officialihsanjohor/
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