KUALA LUMPUR: The nationwide flood situation is beginning to show signs of recovery, with the number of evacuees at temporary relief centres (PPS) seeing a downward trend, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Ahmad Zahid, who is also the National Disaster Management Committee chairman, noted significant improvements in the flood-affected regions.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, as of 1 pm today, the number of operating PPS has decreased by 13.69 per cent to 561 centres, while the number of affected families has dropped by 8.7 per cent to 37,759. Kelantan and Terengganu, the two states most severely affected, have also recorded similar trends. In Kelantan, the number of operational PPS has decreased by 11.07 per cent to 217 centres, while the number of affected families has reduced by 9.57 per cent to 24,238.

“The situation in Terengganu is also improving, with the number of PPS dropping by 16.25 per cent to 237 centres and the number of affected families reducing by 6.14 per cent t
o 9,990,” Ahmad Zahid shared in a social media post. Though this progress offers some relief, he urged the public to remain vigilant and prioritize safety.

Ahmad Zahid cautioned against playing in or exposing oneself to floodwaters, highlighting that even receding waters are often contaminated and can pose health risks, such as skin infections, waterborne diseases, or bites from dangerous animals. He emphasized the importance of maintaining personal and environmental hygiene, especially upon returning home from PPS, and advised adherence to authorities’ instructions.

He also called on those still residing in PPS to remain patient and cooperate fully with rescue teams and relief workers, while collectively praying for further improvement of the situation.