THE current flood situation does not warrant the government to declare a climate emergency yet, according to Home Affairs Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

The minister said there are certain processes that have to be carried out before such a declaration can be made.

“For the moment, there is no need to declare a climate emergency because the situation is still under control.

“On the whole, relief operations are under control and running well, with reports submitted regularly including during yesterday’s cabinet meeting,” he said in Tanah Merah, Kelantan, today.

Previously, it was reported that Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman had filed an emergency motion under standing orders 18(1) and 18(2) asking the Dewan Rakyat to declare a climate emergency and discuss immediate flood mitigation measures to minimise the damage to the country, especially along the east coast of the peninsula.

Meanwhile, Saifuddin said additional air assets will be sent to Kelantan and Terengganu.

“The additional air assets will come from the police force, two units for Kelantan and one unit in Terengganu,” he added.

He also asked residents in flood-affected areas to co-operate with the authorities.

“If you are instructed to evacuate, don’t delay because it could be life-threatening,” he said. – Bernama, December 22, 2022.