MELAKA, The state government will provide a water rebate for August bills to over 1,500 families affected by flash floods in Masjid Tanah and Alor Gajah on Aug 11. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh announced that the rebate will cover 3,521 accounts with Syarikat Air Melaka Berhad (SAMB), with a financial implication of RM177,453.50. "Thanks to the state government's initiative through SAMB, this special assistance is expected to alleviate the burden on flood victims, involving more than 6,000 individuals from 1,500 families. "However, those affected must apply to SAMB by submitting a police report or a confirmation letter from the relevant agency verifying the damage to their premises," he said at a press conference after the State Executive Council meeting at Seri Negeri today. The flash floods affected 23 areas in Masjid Tanah and Alor Gajah, including Kampung Paya Lebar, Ramuan China Besar, Taman Masjid Tanah Ria, and Durian Daun. The floods were caused by heavy rain lasting over six hours and are considered among the worst in the past decade. In addition to the water rebate, the state government has also provided emergency assistance of RM300 per family through the Melaka Disaster Fund and distributed over 1,500 food kits to flood evacuees sheltering in 10 temporary evacuation centres. Source:BERNAMA News Agency