Taiping: The Perak state government is actively planning to provide assistance to residents affected by a severe storm that hit Taiping recently. The district officer of Larut, Matang, and Selama has been tasked with assessing the extent of the damage and determining the necessary types of aid required for the victims.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad emphasized that the district officer, who also serves as the district disaster relief committee chairman, is expected to propose relevant contributions or financial assistance. Saarani highlighted that while aid will be forthcoming, it will require time as a thorough evaluation of the damage and the method of assistance need to be carried out, involving state government financial allocations.

The storm resulted in various damages, including houses damaged by fallen trees, roofs blown off by strong winds, collapsed business premises roofs, and ruined Ramadan bazaar tents. Consequently, 22 families have been relocated to a temporary evacuation center as part of immediate relief efforts.

In another development, Saarani announced a significant allocation of RM4 million for the Students' Self-Sustenance Assistance and Student Emergency Assistance initiatives, aimed at supporting Perak students pursuing higher education, including Diploma, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. The Self-Sustenance Assistance provides financial support based on the level of study, ranging from RM500 to RM1,000.

Additionally, the state government offers Student Emergency Assistance for students facing unforeseen challenges such as accidents, serious health issues, or theft, with aid granted up to RM5,000 based on individual case merits and subject to the approval committee's decision.

Saarani further revealed that RM750,000 has been allocated for Book Voucher Assistance, benefiting 5,000 students with vouchers worth RM150 each to help alleviate the cost of purchasing reference materials and study books.