Manila is badly flooded

Not only is Penang flooded, Manila, The Philippines capital city of 15 million is brought to a standstill caused by floods forcing at least 20,000 people to flee their homes as floodwaters covered half the sprawling city, according to the authorities.

Schools, financial markets and most government offices were shut as key roadways in Manila - a metropolis of some 15 million people - were made impassable by waters that in some areas reached neck-deep.

Residents of low-lying slums fled the huge shantytowns lining Manila's rivers and sewers for the safety of schools, gymnasiums and government buildings.

The death toll from eight days of sustained rains has risen to 53 with more than 268,000 people forced to flee their homes across the country, according to disaster authorities.

More from The Star..Philippine capital brought to standstill in floods

Kuala Lumpur could use more rainfall to alleviate the possible water shortage as well as clear the air from the haze caused by the burning hotspots.