Flood losses decreased to RM755 million last year – Ahmad Zahid
KOTA TINGGI: The value of losses due to floods across the country was successfully reduced to RM755 million last year compared to RM1.03 billion in 2022.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the reduction of RM275 million was achieved as a result of efficient management and close cooperation of various parties through disaster risk reduction measures.
“In 2022, we lost and incurred damage worth RM1.03 billion, but with disaster risk reduction measures, the loss was successfully reduced by RM275 million,” he said at a press conference after the National Preparedness Month (BKN) 2024 Launch Ceremony.
He said the cabinet had also approved the National Risk Reduction Policy and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) two weeks ago, which will be used to coordinate disaster risk reduction efforts.
He said the measures would be implemented throughout the country and he asked all State Disaster Committee chairmen (State Government Secretaries) to implement the same efforts at the state level.
Ahmad Zahid who is also the Chairman of the National Disaster Management Committee said the government has also built Disaster Permanent Evacuation Centers (PPKB) in Johor and Pahang which are equipped with various facilities starting last year.
The selection of the location for PPKB, he said, was based on the recommendations of the State Disaster Management Committee (JPBN), among other things, taking into account areas prone to flash floods and areas experiencing rainfall above normal levels.
PPKB pilot projects have also been started in Kelantan, Kedah, Penang, Perak, Terengganu as well as Sabah and Sarawak.
Earlier, Ahmad Zahid in his speech said the government allocated RM21 million to buy five units of the Bailey Bridge as well as RM3 million for the purchase of 31 units of Post Control Tents at the Scene (PKTK) and the necessary equipment.
At the event, he also launched the National Disaster Risk Reduction Policy 2030 which will be the main guide to reduce risk and minimize the impact of disasters and make the country more resilient in comprehensive and holistic risk management.
BKN 2024 with the theme “Malaysia Civil, Disaster Preparedness” aims to raise awareness about disaster preparedness through a comprehensive approach that involves the cooperation of the government and local communities.
— BERNAMA
