KUALA TERENGGANU, Dec 27 — All local authorities in Terengganu have been instructed to prepare for post-third-wave flood cleaning works.
State Secretary Datuk Seri Tengku Farok Hussin Tengku Abdul Jalil said the directive was issued as the current flood situation in eight districts is gradually improving, with the number of victims placed in temporary relief centres (PPS) showing a decreasing trend.
Speaking in his capacity as the State Disaster Management Committee (JPBNT) chairman, he said all flood victims are expected to return home in stages, and the PPS could be fully closed within a week.
"At present, the trend (number of victims) is decreasing in all districts. According to the Malaysian Meteorological Department, rain is expected to end today but will continue for another day (tomorrow).
"After the floods, we know there will be a lot of debris. So, all local authorities are instructed to be prepared. At the management level (JPBNT), we will organise teams for cleaning works, especially in government premises such as schools, offices, and so on," Tengku Farok said during a visit to the Terengganu State Disaster Operations Room today.
Meanwhile, he also denied allegations the release of water from the Kenyir Lake Dam was the cause of the flood disaster in Kelantan, as claimed by some parties.
Although there was a release of water from the dam due to the significant flood, it would not affect other states because its channel only involves a river in Terengganu.
"Accusing Kenyir Lake as the cause of floods elsewhere is a false accusation and a misconception because Kenyir only channels water through the Sungai Terengganu.
"So far, there are no problems in Kenyir Lake. If there is a significant flood and much water is released, it will only affect Terengganu and not involve other states," Tengku Farok said.
— Bernama