MELAKA: Volunteers from the Crisis Relief Squad of MCA (CRSM) have had to deal with slithering reptiles, pests and vermin in homes and vehicles when helping out in the aftermath of the floods.

       State CRSM chief Yong Fun Juan said there had been cases where cars were damaged by animals taking shelter inside during the floods.

       “One car owner in Merlimau had to have his vehicle towed after rats damaged the wiring.

       “Some of my volunteers encountered monitor lizards while cleaning the homes of flood victims,” he said in an interview.

       Yong said his team had also been overwhelmed by the task of rescuing pets in flood-hit areas.

       However, he said pet rescue was part of the emergency action plan outlined last year to prepare for the rainy season.

       Yong said the plan was augmented based on CRSM’s experience dealing with such incidents.

       “We also have a list of flood-prone areas where our volunteers can respond promptly upon being alerted,” he said.

       Yong added that they had enough volunteers to be mobilised across the state.

       “Maintaining communication with the local authorities is also a priority for us when reaching out to victims.

       “We have prepared our logistics to promptly respond to a wide range of scenarios including providing enough dry food supplies to evacuees,” he said.

       Separately, 50 volunteers from Universiti Teknikal Melaka have been sent to help with clean-up work in Mentakab, Pahang, and Gemenceh, Negri Sembilan.