Malaysian PM Ismail Sabri Yaakob’s government under fire over slow response to worst floods in recent memory

At least 10 people have died and tens of thousands are displaced after the heaviest flooding in years hit Selangor, the country’s most industrialised region

Public anger mounted after coalition partners Bersatu and Umno continued with their annual meetings while volunteers stepped in to rescue affected people

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A man sits on the bonnet of a car as he waits to be evacuated by a rescue team in Shah Alam, Selangor, on December 20 after Malaysia experienced some of its worst flooding in years. Photo: AFP

Published: 8:47pm, 20 Dec 2021Updated: 10:34pm, 20 Dec 2021

The Malaysian government is facing public pressure over its initially languid response to the country’s worst floods in recent memory, with ordinary citizens and activists stepping in to provide aid as the number of people displaced by the disaster rose above 60,000.

Tens of thousands of people have been rescued by civilian volunteers as well as the army, police and other government agencies since the floods began on Friday.

Local media said at least 10 people have died, with eight reported missing.

The government described the flooding as “something beyond expectations” and a once-in-a-century occurrence. Officials said they are also watching out for a possible surge in Covid-19 cases in temporary shelters.

An aerial view shows a flooded area near the town of Linggi, Malaysia, on December 20. Photo: DPA

Manufacturing firms meanwhile are expecting major losses following damage to property and suspended operations as workers are stranded at home.

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