Kelantan, Pahang, Johor and Selangor listed as flood hotspots

The states of Kelantan, Pahang, Johor and Selangor have been listed as hotspots for floods in the peninsula, with the possibility of floods occuring at any time during the north east monsoon (MTL), says Local Government Development Minister Nga Kor Ming.

He said overall, the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) had listed 5,235 high-risk areas comprising 4,795 flood-prone areas, 254 critical slope areas and 186 headwater areas including in Labuan, Sabah and Sarawak.

Speaking at a press conference in Putrajaya yesterday on JBPM's readiness to deal with the monsoon season, Nga said the agency had outlined more proactive preparations based on the experience of the floods that hit the country in December 2021.

"This includes mobilising a strong brigade consisting of 12,857 full-time officers and 2,111 auxiliary fire officers who are ready to face any possibility of flooding," he said.

In terms of land and water logistics strength, he said there were 584 light vehicles, 140 heavy vehicles and 487 marine vehicles, including 62 boats.
 
The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has forecast that three main areas will experience heavy rainfall from Dec 17, namely the east of the peninsula covering Kelantan and Terengganu, the east coast of Sabah and the west coast of Sarawak.

Nga said JBPM is also working with the natural resources, environment and climate change ministry and MetMalaysia to obtain the latest weather forecasts nationwide.

He also reminded residents in flood-prone areas to prepare for emergencies, including by keeping their important documents and valuables safe.

"Make early preparations and formulate a plan B to avoid unwanted incidents. Don’t wait until the last minute, let’s be prepared," he said.