Worst floods in three decades, 20 villages affected

The floods, which inundated 20 villages in Bukit Besi state constituency, are regarded by residents as the worst since 1983.

Among the affected villages are Kampung Kuala Jengai, Kampung Rantau Panjang, Kampung Dendang, Kampung Jerangau Sungai, Kampung Minda, Kampung Shukor, Kampung Padang Ping and Kampung Lintang.

A total 2,955 victims from 789 families were evacuated to 19 relief centres.

Mohd Ismadi Khalid, 33 of Kampung Minda, said most of the residents in his village had moved out after the water rose to the roofs of most houses.

"This time, the floods are very bad. Since my village is flooded every year, I keep my valuable items on a raft," he said when met by Bernama.

Zulfadzli Supaat, 42, and Siti Salmiah Sikh Salim, 41, of Kampung Wa experienced harrowing moments when water entered their home at midnight.

Teacher Zulfadzli had to call friends to help evacuate his teacher wife and their 45-day-old baby.

"It was a really anxious moment. The only thing on my mind was to evacuate my wife and baby. Thank god, both of them are safe.

"This is the worst flood in my 14-year stay here. During past floods, the water only rose to my calf but this time it came up to my waist," he said.

For senior citizen Mat Jais Jah, 84, the floods inundating his village this time reminded him of the one 31 years ago.

"The floods in 1983 were bad but this time it is worse as more people are evacuated. Fortunately, we have comfortable relief centres and food. Thank god, now all is provided by the government.

"In 1983, we had to escape to hill tops in the village or squatted at houses of villagers built on high ground.

Meanwhile, chairman of Kampung Jerangau Sungai Development and Security Committee chairman Mohamad Jusoh, said more people were evacuated in the floods compared to previous years.

"The flood relief centre at Kampung Pancur Community Hall was closed down after it was inundated two days ago. We had to open a new centre at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Jerangau."

Nevertheless, Mohamad said there were ample food and other requirements provided for the flood victims.

Meanwhile, a Bernama survey around Hulu Terangganu found the residents using boats and speedboats as their main vehicles to carry out their daily activities.