Johor Bahru: The Johor government is set to disburse RM11.247 million in Special Financial Assistance to 3,749 registered heads of household impacted by the fifth wave of the Northeast Monsoon flood disaster. This aid targets those residing in temporary relief centers.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi announced that this financial aid is a collaborative effort between the state government, National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), the Johor Islamic Religious Council, Johor Housing Development Corporation, and local authorities. The assistance amounting to RM3,000 per household is scheduled to be distributed before Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
Moreover, the state government will extend support to traders in Ramadan and Aidilfitri bazaars affected by the floods. Affected traders in the Johor Bahru City Council (MBJB) and Kota Tinggi District Council (MDKT) regions will receive RM500 each. This initiative is aimed at 441 traders, including those from Tebing Dato’ Onn bazaar, Jalan Pandan Ria 3 bazaar, Jalan Mata Kucing bazaar in Kampung Pasir, Persiaran Dahlia bazaar, and MDKT Aidilfitri bazaar.
Onn Hafiz also shared that local councils, including the MBJB, Iskandar Puteri City Council, and several others, have agreed to waive all charges except for rent for Aidilfitri bazaars. Additionally, full exemptions will apply to all charges levied by local authorities for Ramadan bazaars. This measure will benefit 9,839 traders operating in 180 locations throughout Johor.
The state government also plans to provide repair assistance to six mosques, 17 suraus, and 43 educational institutions affected by the floods. Onn Hafiz noted that flood victims who did not register at relief shelters still have the opportunity to appeal for aid. Appeals can be submitted at district offices in Johor Bahru, Kulai, Kota Tinggi, Pontian, Kluang, and Batu Pahat until the end of April 2025.
In closing, Onn Hafiz expressed his sympathy for the recent floods that displaced 13,089 people from 3,749 families, necessitating the establishment of 100 relief centers across six districts.