MTL: Kelantan APM Strengthens Training, Logistical Preparations

KOTA BHARU, Oct 19 (Bernama) -- The Kelantan branch of the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) is carrying out training and strengthening its logistical preparations to face the Northeast Monsoon (MTL) that is expected to begin next month.

Its acting director, Lt Kol (PA) Mohd Farid Ishak said several initiatives have been formulated, including field training especially in flood-risk areas, as well as water training to ensure personnel are at an optimal level of preparedness.

He said that as a frontline agency in disaster operations, especially floods, all personnel must be skilled in aspects of water rescue, the use of boats, logistic equipment as well as emergency communications.

"Water training carried out also includes simulations in the rescue of drowning victims, boat handling in strong currents, and the coordination with other agencies such as the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department, Royal Malaysian Police and Social Welfare Department.

"The phased training approach is not only aimed at improving the efficiency of members but also at giving confidence to the community that the APM is always ready to face any eventuality," he said when contacted today.

-- BERNAMA