By Aida Aziz
LUMUT: Malaysians naturally possess a strong sense of compassion, especially when disasters strike either within the country or in neighbouring nations.
People from various backgrounds come together to help in any way they can, whether through providing food supplies or emotional support.
Among those contributing is Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI), which has been assisting flood victims in Manjung, one of the eight affected districts in Perak.
As of late Monday night, Manjung recorded the highest number of victims, with 1,669 people from 499 families sheltering at 15 temporary relief centres (PPS).
According to UPSI Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Md. Amin Md. Taff, 31 volunteers were deployed to four PPS to distribute essential supplies and conduct counselling sessions for the victims.
“The PPS involved in the mission include PPS SMK Sitiawan, SK Batu 10 Lekir, PPS Kampung Pasir Panjang Laut and Kampung Teluk Pancalang.
“Four hundred blankets and 90 packs of dry food were also distributed to ensure comfort and sufficient supplies for the victims throughout their stay at the PPS.
“UPSI’s professional counselling team also conducted psychosocial support sessions, especially for children, to help them manage trauma and stress caused by the disaster,” he said.
He added that the 31 UPSI volunteers consisted of five administrative staff, five lecturers from the Counselling Department, three counselors from the Counselling Centre, three members of the Student Representative Council (MPP), and 15 students from the Faculty of Human Development (FPM).
Md. Amin said UPSI’s involvement in the mission reflects its concern for the local community and strengthens the role of educational institutions in supporting society during crises.
“For now, we are focusing on the Manjung district because of the high number of victims, and God willing, we will move to other districts soon.
“UPSI will never neglect our social responsibilities. The presence of our volunteer team along with the aid demonstrates the solidarity of the UPSI community with those facing hardship,” he said.
He noted that the counselling aspect of the mission plays a crucial role in disaster situations, especially for children, who often struggle to express their emotions and fears.
“Sometimes the trauma experienced by children isn’t visible on the surface, but its impact is significant. Our counselors are there to provide a safe space for them to express their feelings, ultimately helping to restore emotional stability,” he explained.
He added that UPSI is now planning the second phase of assistance, which will focus on post-flood clean-up work and the provision of further aid to accelerate recovery in affected areas.
Besides Manjung, they have also delivered flood relief assistance to Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK), which is currently facing a similar disaster.
