Torrential Rain in Penang

On Saturday afternoon, typhoon-like storm lashed Penang, and within hours it paralysed Penang with waist-level flood. 80% of Penang is inundated, including mainland Penang, which has so far seldom been attacked by flood of this magnitude. The storm was so strong, one and a half month amount of rain fell in a single day and the strong wind uprooted trees and roofs, displacing people and severing lots of roads.

This is a very unfortunate incident. This occurs because typhoon has landed Vietnam, and this has caused low pressure across the northern Peninsula and that brought moisture and land, thus explaining this unusual magnitude of storm. 4 people have so far been confirmed dead, and thousands, probably tens of thousands are displaced, and I can't even begin to imagine how many people's house has an unwelcome guest.

Since this is a natural phenomenon, it really is a tragedy that cannot be avoided. This need not be politicised, because it is outside the state's government control. It's also good that federal government has begun to step in to assist. Penang really appreciates the help.

I might be in Kuching, but my heart is still in Penang. Please be strong, Penang.

And by the way, all the best to all students sitting for SPM and STPM tomorrow. I know it's difficult now that Jit Sin is closed for use as evacuation centre, but please be strong and sit for it as if nothing has happened. You can do it. We have done Jit Sin proud for years, you can do it too!