Anwar: Timber firms should fork out payments to flood victims
Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim said timber firms which he believed were partially responsible for flash floods in the country should fork out payments to flood victims.
He said in some parts of the country, there was evidence that suggested that logging activities had in part aggravated the flood situation.
"If we look at the photographs, we can see signs that...
Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim said timber firms which he believed were partially responsible for flash floods in the country should fork out payments to flood victims.
He said in some parts of the country, there was evidence that suggested that logging activities had in part aggravated the flood situation.
"If we look at the photographs, we can see signs that excessive logging has had an impact.
"So, apart from the state government, timber firms which have made huge profits must contribute more aid because they are also responsible," Anwar (above) said after visiting Ketari near Bentong, Pahang this afternoon.
The PKR president said he had visited various flood-hit areas including Selangor in the last week and lauded the solidarity among people of different faiths and races in helping the flood victims.
However, he said there was a need to improve efficiency in the cleanup, particularly in places like Taman Sri Muda, Selangor.
Reduce bureaucracy for flood victims
Anwar noted that lorries ferrying damaged possessions could not transport properly due to congestion.
He said the government should also reduce bureaucracy for flood victims to claim compensation.
Likewise, he said ministers should also ditch protocol when visiting flood-hit areas.
Anwar gave the example of him travelling on a motorcycle even though it was not suitable for a person of his age. He is 74 years old.
He said this was to avoid disrupting the flood relief efforts.
This was amid complaints that VIP convoys visiting flood-hit areas had caused disruptions.
