Traders 'Tired' of Facing Floods as Food Court Inundated for Fifth Time This Year

Traders at the Medan Selera 223 food court in Petaling Jaya are expressing exhaustion and despair after their premises were inundated by a flash flood for the fifth time this year. The rapid rise of water on Saturday afternoon caused thousands of ringgit in losses, with many vendors facing the daunting task of cleaning up their stalls.

Jamaliah Yusoff, a single mother who has operated her stall for 35 years, recounted the trauma of previous floods, including one that caused RM3,000 in damage to her vehicle. "I managed to move my car, but my goods and cooking equipment were unsalvageable," she said. "My stove and blender, which I only bought two months ago, were damaged by the flood."

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I managed to move my car, but my goods and cooking equipment were unsalvageable. My stove and blender, which I only bought two months ago, were damaged by the flood.

Other traders also reported significant losses. Arina Ahmad, 42, who has been selling food there for 15 years, had to spend money on new ingredients like lamb and rice that were ruined. "Whether I like it or not, I have to spend money to buy new supplies today," she stated, adding that she had taken precautions this time by raising her refrigerator higher and placing equipment on tables.

The recent flood occurred during a busy period, with an expo drawing many visitors to the area. While the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) and the Fire and Rescue Department assisted with cleaning efforts after the water receded around 6:30 p.m., the recurring nature of the floods leaves the vendors uncertain about their future.

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Whether I like it or not, I have to spend money to buy new supplies today.