Floating Raft Houses Are A Lifeline For Flood-Hit Rantau Panjang Residents

PASIR MAS, Nov 26 (Bernama) -- Floating raft houses serve as a vital lifeline for residents in low-lying areas of Rantau Panjang, allowing them to save essential belongings during floods.

Norihan Mohd Nor, 39, from Kampung Tersang, said the floating raft house she received from a non-governmental organisation last year is made of lightweight timber and drum barrels, which are easier to move around when water levels begin to rise.

"So far, important items, including electronic equipment, have been wrapped in plastic and placed on the floating raft house. This has been very helpful because we can save our belongings first before relocating.

"This evening, my family and I moved to my eldest sister's house in Kampung Kubang Dapat as the water level continued to rise. I did not want to risk waiting," she told Bernama. 

Meanwhile, Mukim Lubuk Gong headman, Muhammad Arifin Ismail, 63, said 70 floating raft houses have been distributed to seven villages in Pasir Mas and Rantau Panjang. 

He said each unit can be used by up to six families. The villages are Kampung Meranti, Kampung Serongga, Kampung Tasek Bakong, Kampung Kusar Dalam, Kampung Tersang, Kampung Lubuk Gong, and Tasek Permai.

"Villagers are advised to relocate early to avoid moving at night when currents are strong, as this can be dangerous and complicate rescue efforts," he said.

A Bernama survey today found that residents in several low-lying areas, including Kampung Gual Tok Deh and Kampung Padang Licin, had already moved their belongings to higher ground and relocated livestock such as cattle to safer locations.

The Kelantan State Information Department was also observed making safety announcements and reminding residents to evacuate early. 

-- BERNAMA