BINTULU: The World Mission Society Church of God has stepped in to assist affected residents with post-flood recovery efforts here.
Heavy rainfall from Jan 29-31 led to blocked drains and worsened conditions as the Kemena River overflowed, causing devastating damage to homes in the area.
According to the church in a statement, their volunteers visited 10 flood affected households in Bukit Orang and Taman Bandar Jaya, both located near the Kemena River from Jan 31 to Feb 6.
A total of 25 volunteers participated in the recovery efforts, cleaning homes and providing support to victims.
They worked tirelessly to clear mud and debris, clean household appliances, and dry wet clothes, blankets, and mattresses under the sun.
But some damaged furniture was beyond repair and had to be discarded.
The cleanup operation began at the home of Reammy Joseph Sada, 40, and concluded at the residence of Gupi Nyanggai, 63.
“About 200 of our chickens died due to the flood, and all 14 goats were not spared,” said Rose, a family member of Anis Dasa, 63, who lives with three generations under one roof.
One of the flood victims, Udan Duda, expressed his gratitude, saying: “We don’t know each other, yet you all work so hard to help clean. You are truly angels sent by God.”
Naling Engga, 46, one of the volunteers who moved muddied items, expressed his hope that all affected families would find strength in the face of adversity.
Meanwhile, Jack Andreson Kibot, 21, another volunteer who was busily clearing mud from a yard, said although tiring, helping one’s neighbours is worth it.
This is not the first time the church has actively contributed to disaster relief efforts as when Selangor was hit by major floods, the it played a key role in post-flood cleanups, assisting 20 affected homes and clearing debris from streets.
Beyond disaster relief, the church has consistently engaged in community service initiatives across Malaysia.
Volunteers have conducted environmental cleanup efforts at Taylor’s University in Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu City Hall, Pantai Esen in George Town, and Iskandar Halal Park in Pasir Gudang.
They have also provided support to elderly care homes in Sarawak and Kuala Lumpur, supplying essential goods and improving living conditions.
Additionally, the church has made significant contributions to blood donation drive to address blood shortages in various locations, including Kuching, Miri, Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, and Johor Bahru.
In response to the growing climate crisis, the church has initiated carbon reduction campaigns, including the Erasing Plastic Footprints Campaign, Forest of Hope Campaign (focused on reforestation), and the Everyday Practice Campaign for 366 Footprints of Hope (promoting reduced use of single-use plastics).
The church also conducts environmental awareness forums and seminars to educate the public on sustainable living.
