BINTULU: Emotional support for flood victims is crucial in helping them cope with trauma and stress after a disaster, said Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah.
She emphasised that, in addition to physical aid and essential supplies, mental health care must be a priority to ensure flood victims can fully recover from the emotional impact of the disaster.
“The anxiety over the loss of property and damage to homes is a real concern for flood victims.
“Therefore, we have deployed counsellors from the Social Welfare Department (JKM) to assist victims in expressing their emotions and providing them with much-needed emotional support,” she said.
She said this when speaking to the media after visiting the Temporary Relief Centre (PPS) at Dewan SMK Assyakirin, Sungai Plan, on Sunday.
Fatimah also reminded flood victims to prioritise their safety while cleaning by wearing protective gear, such as special boots, to prevent injuries.
“It is essential for the elderly and those with health conditions such as diabetes to seek immediate medical attention if they sustain wounds as contaminated floodwater can cause complications,” she added.
Meanwhile, Fatimah stated that the government is gathering information from disaster committees in each affected area to assess the damage to homes and properties.
This will help determine the appropriate forms of assistance for affected victims.
