Malaysia's Disaster Preparedness Gains Global Recognition - Ahmad Zahid
JERANTUT, Oct 13 (Bernama) -- Malaysia has emerged as a global benchmark in disaster management, thanks to a decade of structured training, inter-agency collaboration, and strategic leadership, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
Ahmad Zahid, who also chairs the Central Disaster Management Committee, said this achievement is the result of collective efforts, particularly by the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), which has also played an active role in international humanitarian missions.
“What’s even more impressive is that Malaysia’s capabilities are now recognised internationally, and even Russia has come to learn from us. NADMA has also participated in numerous global humanitarian missions.”
He said this at the launch of the National Preparedness Month (BKN) 2025 celebration at Padang FA here today, which was also attended by Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail.
Themed “Sentiasa Siaga, Bencana Terjaga” (Always Ready, Disasters Under Control), BKN 2025 reflects the government's commitment to fostering continuous awareness and preparedness among the public.
Ahmad Zahid said that the campaign is more than just a public awareness effort, as it serves as a platform to unify all levels of the national machinery under a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach.
“I believe the government and the people must move in tandem, because true preparedness doesn’t live on paper. It lives in the actions of every Malaysian with a heart for the nation,” he said.
Marking its 10th anniversary this year, NADMA, established on Oct 1, 2015, continues to spearhead national disaster management, ensuring the government’s response remains structured, focused, and effective.
“Ten years is no short journey. In this past decade, NADMA has built a disaster management system that is increasingly mature, modern, and comprehensive. What used to be reactive has now become proactive,” Ahmad Zahid said.
He also shared details about the planned Permanent Disaster Relief Centre (PPBK) in Jerantut, Pahang, which will be equipped with essential amenities, including family spaces, kitchens, water and electricity supply, early warning systems, and a modern emergency operations plan, hence ensuring fast, organised, and efficient aid deployment.
Looking ahead, Zahid revealed that the government plans to build at least one PPBK in each state as a long-term strategy to manage flood risks, particularly in high-risk zones.
“Until now, we’ve relied on classrooms and school halls, which lack adequate facilities. The MADANI Government is committed to building proper PPBKs with complete infrastructure. Outside of the flood season, these centres can be utilised by nearby communities,” he explained.
The BKN 2025 event also featured various community-focused activities, including the Rehlah Perdana MADANI Siaga, Rural Entrepreneurs Sales Programme, Rahmah MADANI Sales, and exhibitions showcasing disaster response logistics and equipment.
-- BERNAMA
