Kelantan Faces RM30 Million Losses as Floods Disrupt Lives and Education Efforts

Kelantan is grappling with significant challenges following the first wave of floods that has resulted in losses exceeding RM30 million. This devastating impact was underscored by state executive council member Wan Roslan Wan Hamat, who shared insights into the extent of the damage during a recent press conference at the launch of the Acceptance and Disbursement of Aid programme from Felda Global Ventures (FGV) Holding Berhad at Pantai Sri Tujoh. According to Wan Roslan, the situation remains fluid as data collection is ongoing from various agencies involved in the disaster response. The preliminary assessment has already highlighted that six to seven schools under the Kelantan Islamic Foundation (YIK) have sustained damage due to rising waters, which interrupts not only education but community stability. In addition to the physical damage to infrastructure, the floods have directly impacted the academic future of 207 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) candidates. These students are now confronted with uncertainty regarding their examinations and preparations, a critical period in their educational journey disrupted by circumstances beyond their control. The emotional and logistical challenges they face during this disaster are immense, as they must navigate their studies amidst the chaos of recovery efforts. The escalating losses are indicative of the multifaceted impact of natural disasters, affecting not just the economy and physical structures but also the educational system and the lives of students and families. As authorities continue to assess the full extent of the damage, it is evident that the recovery process will require substantial resources and a coordinated effort from both government bodies and community organizations. The situation in Kelantan serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities many regions face during flood seasons, highlighting the urgent need for long-term strategies to mitigate such risks in the future. The local government and relevant stakeholders are expected to prioritize not only immediate relief efforts but also to consider sustainable solutions to reinforce infrastructure and support affected communities in the wake of this disaster. As the recovery efforts get underway, the spirit of resilience among residents and the commitment from various organizations will be crucial in overcoming the challenges posed by this catastrophic event.