JKM, in a statement, said the flood victims were initially managed by the Orang Asli development department (Jakoa) at the relief centre in SK Bukit Tadom.

“However, after the centre was inundated, the disaster operations control centre advised the residents to move to the SK Labohan Dagang relief centre.

“The control centre accepted the decision of the Orang Asli not to move to the relief centre and to remain in the village. Following this, Tadom Hill Resorts provided tents for their temporary accommodation,” the statement read.

The department explained that the Kuala Langat district JKM later took over the matter and distributed food supplies and basic necessities in collaboration with NGOs and the public.

“Women, family and community development minister Rina Harun visited the relief centre and presented donations to the flood evacuees on Dec 22 while the JKM deputy director-general presented contributions to Tok Batin Hadi to be distributed to others on the next day,” it said.

According to JKM, the department understands the needs of all Malaysians, including the Orang Asli.

There were no double standards when it came to dealing with difficult situations such as floods, it said, adding that the department and Jakoa always work together to address the problems faced by the community.