Floods leave Kuching residents physically, emotionally drained

KUCHING (March 11): The recent floods in Kuching have left many residents physically exhausted and emotionally drained as they struggle to cope with damaged homes, lost belongings and repeated clean-up efforts.

For Mohamad Zainuddin Mohd Giri, 38, a food manufacturing salesman, the ordeal has been particularly overwhelming.

In an interview with The Borneo Post at the R. Piang Hall relief centre in Kampung Sinar Budi Baru, Batu Kawa here, Mohamad Zainuddin said the disaster had changed his perception of what flood victims truly go through.

“Since moving here yesterday, I can see the difference. There were many mosquitoes at my house last night,” he said.

“Here, there are proper sleeping arrangements, including mattresses, pillows, blankets, toiletries and sufficient food, including sahur,” he added.

Mohamad Zainuddin, his wife and three primary school-aged children had experienced flooding in their home three times previously, with water levels reaching between ankle and knee height.

This year marked the first time they stayed at a temporary relief centre (PPS), after previously choosing to remain at home as they were caring for their children following a circumcision ceremony.

Describing the condition of his house after the flood, he said cabinets and wardrobes had collapsed while clothes and books were soaked beyond salvage.

He added that persistent mould had begun forming on the walls despite repeated cleaning.

“Even after washing, the clothes still smell bad. The kitchen cabinets, dish cupboard and wardrobes collapsed, and mould keeps coming back despite using sprays. I hope it disappears eventually,” he said, highlighting the emotional toll of the disaster.

“Before this, I thought flood victims could just return home once the water receded. Now that I have experienced it myself, it’s really disheartening.

“It’s not just the loss of the things we have collected over the years, but our spirits are affected as well,” he said, adding that additional support is needed after floods, particularly cleaning supplies such as detergents, mops and brooms to help residents restore their homes.

Meanwhile, at the PPS at Stapok Community Hall, Nobinaggie Rubin, 33, a housewife from Taman Desa Wira, shared a similar experience.

She and her husband, together with their three young sons, aged seven, six, and two, had to evacuate for one night and two days along with other relatives.

“We experienced flooding last year as well and have moved to PPS three times,” she said, adding that the rising waters had caught many residents off guard.

“Many of our household items were damaged, including our washing machines, fans and motorcycles because we were unable to move them in time as floodwaters reached knee level,” she said.
She said the relief centre had provided food, drinks, diapers, milk for children, bedding and medicines.

“When we return home, we hope more household cleaning supplies such as brooms, mops, detergents and hoses will be provided,” she added.