“I’m merely a volunteer” – Abang Viva Responds to Claims of His Absence & Goes on Flood Relief Mission

As Malaysians in the eastern states of Kelantan and Terengganu grapple with heavy rain and floods, Azwan Omar, or more fondly known as Abang Viva, is back on the ground to help those affected.

In a series of Facebook posts, the lovable volunteer, who achieved celebrity status for his good work in the floods last year, shared photos and videos of his recent rescue and aid mission in the East Coast. 

Kampung matang

This was his 2nd time in December heading out to the disaster zone to help residents. Him and his team 1st went to Terengganu, starting from Kampung Paya Besar, Kuala Berang, then headed to Kampung Matang.

Later, they continued up north to Jerteh and Besut.

Kampung paya besar

“Only finished our mission at 2.30am,” he wrote in a post after helping the residents of Kampung Paya Besar. He also apologised to those in Kelantan for not being able to reach them as many roads were closed.

In Kampung Matang, Abang Viva can be seen getting ready to go into flood waters on his inflatable boat. 

Kampung matang

At 2pm, December 19, 2022, him and his team started their journey to Jerteh after getting word on a few families who’re still stranded. 

He said that many roads were closed as the water is too high and swift.

Netizens question Abang Viva’s absence

Earlier, netizens were apparently condemning Abang Viva for not helping flood victims. According to Astro Awani, Abang Viva recently spoke on a livestream to clear the air on his absence.

He felt that Malaysians shouldn’t expect him to always be on the ground helping victims because all the philanthropic work he did was on a voluntary basis.

As he is married and has a kid now, he asked Malaysians to be more understanding about his situation as he has more mouths to feed now, which means less time and money at his disposal. 

“The issue is that I use my own capital. I spent almost RM1,000 to go to Kelantan and Terengganu the other day. Just for petrol and toll fees,” he said.

“It’s okay if I receive an allowance. But the issue is, I already have a wife and kid. I’m a volunteer; this is not my permanent job. So, I don’t think it’s fair for everyone to expect my presence or absence.”

Great work as always, Abang Viva! 

Also read: Kelantan & T’ganu Show Appreciation to Selangor Govt For Sending RM1 MILLION in Flood Aid