KUALA LUMPUR: The government will maintain the method of providing assistance directly to flood victims through relevant agencies rather than via elected representatives, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Ahmad Zahid, who is also the National Disaster Management Committee chairman, highlighted that aid had been distributed equally by the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), the Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) of the Prime Minister's Department, and other agencies. According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid noted that the Social Welfare Department (JKM) and various non-governmental organisations (NGOs) had also been instrumental in delivering aid. He assured that the presence of these relief agencies at flood sites, particularly at temporary relief centres (PPS), had alleviated the disappointment of flood victims due to the absence of elected representatives. He made these comments after appearing on Bernama TV's Ruang Bicara programme. Arau MP Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim, during a press conference in Parliament, urged the government to consider an immediate allocation of RM1 million to opposition MPs in flood-affected areas to be directed to victims. Similarly, Machang MP Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal requested that financial aid be channelled directly to elected representatives in impacted areas to mitigate delays in support reaching the victims. Ahmad Zahid acknowledged these concerns but emphasized that state assemblymen and members of Parliament should assist their constituents using their preferred methods. He reiterated the government's commitment to a 'colour blindness' policy in providing assistance, ensuring aid reaches all areas regardless of political affiliation. He further stressed the need for cooperation between federal and state governments to prioritize the welfare of all affected individuals. Ahmad Zahid urged all states, irrespective of the ruling party, to align with the MADANI Government's objectives. In preparation for the anticipated secon d wave of floods from December 8 to 14, due to the monsoon, Ahmad Zahid stated that the government is at the highest level of readiness. This includes the identification of 8,481 PPS facilities capable of accommodating over 2.1 million flood victims at once, and the deployment of 82,000 staff from various agencies to coordinate aid efforts. He expressed hope for minimal impact but stressed the importance of preparedness following the first wave of floods.