Malaysiakini May 22, 11
Pakatan governments of Selangor and Penang have pledged aid to the victims of the landslide yesterday in Hulu Langat, Selangor as a sign of moral support.
Selangor is sending aid as well as contributing RM1,000 to each victim’s family, while Penang is suggesting a RM25,000 lump sum donation to the victims of the tragedy.
16 youths were reported killed and nine injured when a landslide hit Hidayah Madrasah Al-Taqwa orphanage at 2.30pm yesterday.
Selangor Menteri Besar Abdul Khalid Ibrahim yesterday said the state has sent a humanitarian aid mission to the scene of the tragedy to provide immediate assistance to the victims.
“The MB is also effecting a contribution of RM1,000 to each family whose child has perished in the incident, as a gesture of sympathy for the unforseen misfortune,” said the MB’s press secretariat in a statement yesterday.
The PKR-led state government has also arranged for temporary shelter for the residents of the madrasah as rescue works were in progress. In addition, Menteri Besar Selangor Incorporated (MBI) is also covering the costs of the survivors and the officers involved in the search and rescue operations, said the press secretary.
Penang moots RM25,000
Meanwhile, the DAP-led Penang government has suggested a donation of RM25,000 to the orphanage and the families of the 25 victims.
“Although the amount is not substantial, it represents moral support to ease the spirits of the families of the victims and give the survivors hope to live on,” said Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng in a statement today from Kuala Lumpur.
“The disaster has saddened and touched the hearts of Malaysians nationwide regardless of race and religion, all of whom sympathise with the victims,”said Lim, offering his condolences and sympathies..
Lim, who is Bagan MP, also thanked the rescuers and police who worked “tirelessly” in their rescue operations for their efforts and dedication.
He also called on the relevant authorities to take steps to ensure that this tragedy never repeats.