APM Places All Assets On Full Alert Ahead Of Northeast Monsoon

KOTA BHARU, Oct 31 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) has placed all its land and water assets on full alert in preparation for deployment during the Northeast Monsoon (MTL) season.

APM Deputy Chief Commissioner (Management) Datuk Ismail Mohd Zawawi said a total of 1,121 water assets, 789 land assets and 23 drones were ready to ensure the agency’s officers and personnel could operate optimally throughout the monsoon period.

He said the agency had also acquired 30 ambulances and 50 four wheel drive vehicles through new procurements to further strengthen its logistics capabilities in flood rescue missions nationwide.

“Some of our assets are old and unsuitable for flood operations, and those are currently being upgraded,” he told reporters after the APM Media Engagement Session here today.

According to him, two years ago, APM received 100 ambulances and 46 four wheel drive vehicles, while this year, 30 ambulances and 50 four wheel drives were approved through leasing.

"For next year, under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), APM has also been allocated funds to add more ambulances and several other land assets,” he added.

Meanwhile, APM is ready to deploy its personnel across temporary relief centres (PPS) throughout Kelantan, including 20 new centres to be opened as part of preparations for possible unexpected floods.

Ismail said the additional centres were established based on the latest decision by the Social Welfare Department (JKM) to ensure that flood evacuees can be housed in a more organised and safer manner.

He said APM does not face major challenges in terms of manpower deployment at PPS, as the force is supported by a large number of trained volunteers mobilised each year.

“A significant portion of our strength comes from volunteers, as the number of permanent personnel is limited. Each year, the government allocates about RM140 million to pay service contract allowances to these members.

“We cannot freely increase our manpower due to existing budget constraints. However, state directors have the discretion to assign personnel based on current needs,” he also said.

Ismail added that although the establishment of new PPS centres may increase the workload, APM personnel are well-prepared to handle it, given their experience and readiness during previous flood seasons.

-- BERNAMA