ALOR SETAR, Dec 20 — The Kedah Malaysian Civil Defence Department (APM) is now focusing on four districts that are expected to be at high risk of flooding during this northeast monsoon season (MTL).
Head of the Secretariat Division of the Disaster Management Committee Major (PA) Muhammad Suhaimi Mohd Zain said Baling, Kuala Muda, Kulim, and Bandar Baharu have been given special attention in preparing for a possible disaster due to the frequency of flooding and the forecast of the Irrigation and Drainage Department (JPS).
“(For example) in Baling, 23 flash floods have been recorded so far. We have increased manpower, resources, and logistics,” he told reporters before seeing off the Kedah APM flood relief mission to Terengganu at APM Kota Setar Complex last night.
A total of 20 members of the Kedah APM Disaster Response Support Team (PARAS) led by Kedah APM Operations and Disaster Division Officer Lieutenant (PA) Mohd Shukri Shuib left for Terengganu last night to transfer flood victims to relief centres.
Muhammad Suhaimi said currently, Kedah APM conducts regular monitoring in the morning and evening to ensure the preparedness of members and logistics in view of possible flooding.
“We have also coordinated with CDERT (Civil Defence Emergency Response Team) to help where needed, and have sought the assistance of the non-governmental organisations to help the needy in Kedah state,” he said.
— Bernama
