KUCHING: The Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) in Sarawak has made comprehensive preparations for dealing with flood disasters during the Northeast Monsoon (MTL) period.
Sarawak APM director Mohtar Samat said they have 2,666 members strategically positioned throughout all 22 districts in the state, equipped with a range of assets, particularly focusing on flood-prone areas.
“Furthermore, we have provided a total of 116 boats of various sizes and 16 ambulances that can be deployed and used in the event of disasters, especially floods in the future.
“In addition, as part of early preparation, several boats are placed at the community level, such as in Selangau and Marudi, as these are among the areas prone to flooding. This cooperation involves the local community.”
Mohtar was speaking to the media after the Northeast Monsoon 2023/2024 Preparedness Exercise for Sarawak APM at the Rantau Panjang waterfront in Batu Kawah yesterday.
He explained that in flood-prone regions, they have enlisted members to operate continuously, delivering early reports and expediting response efforts.
In connection with leave restrictions, he confirmed that directives have been given to both officers and members, prohibiting them from taking leave in the lead-up to the MTL season.
“For permanent APM members, we have directed that all leave be frozen. However, typically, our members understand and do not take leave at the end of the year as part of early preparation.
“In addition, we also have volunteer members who are ready to assist us at any time,” he added, mentioning that training has been conducted as a measure to ensure that members are always ready to face any disaster.
Furthermore, this preparation also involves village communities and elected representatives to make early preparations and be ready to relocate in case of a disaster.
“We don’t want people to only prepare to move when a flood occurs. That’s why training sessions like today also involve village communities so that they know what needs to be done and are ready to relocate if a flood occurs.”
Mohtar added that they have involved all parliament members, regardless of the opposition or government members, so that they are aware of any actions and situations occurring at the grassroots level.
“Therefore, this year, with our hope that there won’t be any issues of marginalisation, which could suggest that we are providing services based on political agendas.
“We provide services without regard to politics and for the benefit of the community as a whole.”
