KOTA TINGGI, Oct 4 — The Irrigation and Drainage Department (JPS) has identified 4,619 flood hotspots nationwide as part of preparations for the northeast monsoon this year.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said continuous flood monitoring would be carried out by JPS through the National Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre, with the support of the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma), the Meteorological Department (METMalaysia) and the state governments.
He said this included placing 543 flood warning sirens and 737 mobile pumps nationwide, while also suggesting that an allocation be made to purchase more mobile pumps.
He added that JPS would also monitor dams that were more than 50 years old, especially those with large and high water volumes, and identify necessary intervention measures.
"Flood mitigation projects across the country must also be closely monitored to prevent any delays in reducing the impact of floods," he said in a statement yesterday.
Earlier, Zahid chaired the second Central Disaster Management Committee Meeting for 2024, which was also attended by state secretaries as the chairmen of their respective State Disaster Management Committee (JPBN), as well as technical and response agencies, here.
As the chairman of the Central Disaster Management Committee, Zahid said the Social Welfare Department has identified 8,481 temporary evacuation centres capable of accommodating 2.15 million flood victims, while basic amenities would also be given due attention.
He noted that unlimited food assistance would also be provided to those affected by the northeast monsoon and other disasters throughout the year, while urging state governments to immediately distribute funds provided through Nadma to districts, especially those at high risk, to prepare for flooding.
— Bernama
