By Norrasyidah Arshad
Shah Alam, Jan 8 — The state government, via its relevant agencies, is proactively monitoring weather forecasts by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) and alerts from the Irrigation and Drainage Department (DID) amid the ongoing northeast monsoon.
State executive councillor for disaster management Najwan Halimi said this to prepare for potential floods and ensure effective rescue operations during the wet season.
[caption id="attachment_337478" align="alignright" width="411"]
State executive councillor for disaster management Mohd Najwan Halimi speaking at the hand over of equipment for the Selangor Volunteer Corps (Serve) at the Selangor Sports Council on December 1, 2023. — Picture by NUR ADIBAH AHMAD IZAM/SELANGORKINI[/caption]
"Alhamdulillah, so far, everything is fine, and there have been no reports of severe flooding. However, three weeks ago, we had to open two temporary relief centres in Kuala Selangor due to rising water levels.
“We will continue to monitor rainfall forecasts and flood situations so we can take prompt action to prevent the situation from worsening," he said when contacted.
In November last year, MetMalaysia director-general Muhammad Helmi Abdullah said the northeast monsoon is expected to persist until March this year.
As a precautionary measure, Selangor has prepared 10,000 aid packages, including dry food and daily necessities, to ensure the welfare of all victims.
The state administration has also requested the Fire and Rescue Department, the Army, and the Civil Defence Force prepare their assets and ensure they are in good condition so rescue operations can run smoothly.
