Moderate Preparation For CNY By Flood Victims

KUALA KRAI, Jan 12 (Bernama) -- The memory of the devastating floods that inundated homes remains vivid for the Chinese community in Kuala Krai, even as they prepare to celebrate Chinese New Year (CNY), which falls this Jan 29.

A Bernama survey in the Taman Bukit Sireh residential area revealed the profound impact of the disaster. Residents faced significant challenges, spending considerable time and effort cleaning their homes and replacing damaged furniture.

Tan Sheng Lock, a 44-year-old motor workshop owner, shared his experience of the floods, which occurred end of last year. He reported losses of nearly RM10,000, as both his business premises and home were severely affected.

“The recent floods caused water to rise to almost waist level in my workshop, and inside my home, it reached nearly the ceiling. Even now, some areas remain uncleaned,” he said.

Despite the hardships, Tan said Chinese New Year would still be celebrated, albeit on a modest scale, as there are many other pressing needs to address first.

Hairdresser Tien Ai Meng, 49, shared that she was unable to work for nearly a month after the floods, as her time was consumed by cleaning her home.

“This year’s Chinese New Year will be a little sombre. The impact of the flood is devastating, there are still issues caused by the disaster not resolved and now, with the current economic situation, we are having a hard time.

“For this Chinese New Year celebration, my family and I plan on a relaxing beach vacation to find some peace after the challenging experience,” she said.

-- BERNAMA