MALACCA, Feb 8 — Umno will send immediate aid in the form of foodstuffs and basic necessities to 1,500 families affected by floods in Malacca and Negri Sembilan, said the Chairman of its Welfare Bureau, Datuk Shamsul Anuar Nasarah.

He said the goods, which included rice, sugar, biscuits and mineral water, were initial assistance that would be sent to the flood victims regardless of background or political beliefs.

“Based on the study we did in both states yesterday, there is a need for these goods to be sent to the flood victims to help reduce their burdens.

“So we have decided to send this aid to the Umno divisions to coordinate so that it could be immediately sent to the target groups,” he told reporters after handing over the goods to Malacca Chief Minister Datuk Seri Idris Haron, here early this morning.

He said similar aid would also be given to flood victims in Johor soon after information on the victims have been obtained.

As of 8am today, there were 4,600 flood victims from 1,005 families who have been evacuated in Malacca; 662 from 166 families in Negri Sembilan; and 126 victims from 32 families in Johor.

Shamsul Anuar also said the government was grateful to various parties including the Department of Civil Defence, the Fire and Rescue Department, Rela, the Health Department and other agencies for providing assistance, support and service to the flood victims regardless of time.

“The delivery system and services provided by the authorities involved in disaster management are improving,” he said.

He urged the public affected by the floods to be patient as the government would provide assistance based on their needs. ­— Bernama