Armed forces, Rela to assist if floods hit during polls

The government will mobilise the armed forces, the People’s Volunteer Corps (Rela) and other agencies to assist the police if floods hit during the 15th general election (GE15).

Home Minister Hamzah Zainudin said assistance would be needed as the majority of the police force had been assigned to GE15.

"At the home ministry level, we have committed to GE15, with 80,000 personnel for assignments in the election. But if we face floods, we will need more than that.

"So we have instructed Rela to assist but if they are not enough, I will also ask for assistance from the military and other agencies to help out if floods hit," he told reporters in Tasek Gelugor last night.

Hamzah, who is contesting the Larut seat in Perak, was commenting on flood preparations following the recent floods in several areas.

"Our problem now is flooding because of the monsoon season… it will trouble voters from voting, and they will be upset if they face floods and need to vote.

"The police must really be responsible in ensuring the safety of the public, especially voters," he added.