JOHOR BARU: Johor has put its more than 34,000-strong Southern Volunteers on standby to deal with the floods.
Deputy State Secretary (sports, youth, and volunteering) Datuk On Jabbar Jaafar said the Southern Volunteers had already handed out aid such as basic necessities to flood victims in Segamat and Mersing.
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“Each district in Johor has its own Southern Volunteers team. Right now, some of our members are cleaning houses in Segamat that have been hit by floods.
“As it is currently the monsoon season, which is expected to last until March next year, our Southern Volunteers are ever ready to provide help when floods hit,” he said when contacted.
On Jabbar said more heavy rain is predicted to hit Johor, adding that the authorities were constantly monitoring weather reports from the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) as well as from other agencies involved in flood operations.
“This will help us to know when and where the next flood wave will happen. Having such reliable information is key for us in mobilising the Southern Volunteers and providing aid for victims at temporary relief centres.”
On Jabbar added that there are currently 34,716 Southern Volunteers members spread throughout Johor, and 10,298 of them were youth.
As for the number of Covid-19 cases that has been increasing of late, he said the Southern Volunteers were required to abide by the guidelines and standard operating procedure to prevent infections.
“As it is also the Covid-19 season, our members must always be in good health. They must always wear a face mask when they provide assistance either at relief centres or cleaning flood-hit houses, to safeguard themselves and others,” On Jabbar added.
