Rantau Panjang traders cut stock, move goods ahead of annual floods

PASIR MAS: Traders in Rantau Panjang are taking proactive measures ahead of the annual flood season, including reducing stock levels and moving goods to higher ground. Clothing retailer Azila Zanuddin, 45, explained that most traders are refraining from making large purchases of new stock as the monsoon season approaches, instead opting to sell their existing merchandise before gradually restocking.

To prevent damage, they store their merchandise in elevated areas. Similarly, shoe and slipper seller Muhammad Shahmir Amzar Azmi, 25, has moved his inventory to a specially constructed loft within his store to protect it from potential floodwaters. He emphasized that these precautions are essential to avoid any unexpected losses due to sudden flooding.

According to Bernama's checks, most traders in the town have already initiated early preparations, moving their merchandise to higher locations and setting up storage areas to minimize risks. In addition, residents of flood-prone nearby villages like Kampung Gual Periok, Kampung Padang Lincin, and Kampung Tok Deh have also taken preventive steps.

Shukri Che Mat, a 60-year-old resident, mentioned that they have constructed fibreglass boats to assist with transportation during floods. These boats will be utilized to help villagers navigate when water levels rise, which typically occur a few metres from the Golok River. Water levels in the area usually surge after two to three hours of heavy rainfall, prompting early preparations to maintain order and minimize chaos.

In Kota Baru, the weather remained overcast throughout the day with intermittent showers, as reported by local sources.