FORMER prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad has asked lawmakers to refrain from politicising the flooding in the central peninsular region.

“This is not the time to play politics, this is a humanitarian issue,” the Langkawi MP and Pejuang chairman said in a statement today.

Despite improving weather, flooding in the Klang Valley and Pahang in particular remains unchanged.

The Pahang disaster management committee secretariat reported nearly 38,000 people had been evacuated to 280 emergency shelters in nine districts.

Dr Mahathir said his party members should stay humble and be responsible when providing aid to the flood victims.

The 96-year-old leader also thanked Pejuang members who were involved in the search and rescue mission.

“I am sorry because I am not able to join the others in the search and rescue mission but I am confident that Pejuang members will be able to carry out their duties responsibly.”

“However, I urge them to stay humble, be disciplined and be patient throughout the mission.

“Maybe one day we might need others to help us. May our help ease the burden of the victims,” he added.

Dr Mahathir also thanked those who had wished him well after being admitted to the National Heart Institute (IJN) recently.

IJN had previously said that Dr Mahathir will spend a few more days at the hospital, but he could not receive visitors due to Covid-19 SOP. – December 21, 2021.