PASIR MAS: The Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) will conduct surveys in flood-prone areas as part of preparations for the anticipated next wave of flooding due to the ongoing Northeast Monsoon, which is expected to persist until March. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin stated that the armed forces, in collaboration with other agencies, will collect vital information to identify regions likely to experience flooding again.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Khaled emphasized the importance of learning from previous flood waves to better prepare and respond to areas with a high risk of flooding. The armed forces will assess these regions to determine the safest boat routes and identify houses that could be at higher risk during floods, as well as areas lacking natural barriers like hills and valleys. This strategy was shared during his visit to flood evacuees at the relief centre in Sekolah Kebangsaan Padang Gual Tinggi, Rantau Panjang, alongside Chief of Army Gen Tan Sri Datuk Muhammad Hafizuddeain
Jantan.

Khaled expressed his satisfaction with the armed forces’ efforts under Op Murni, which has been instrumental in assisting local authorities in Kelantan and Terengganu with rescue and evacuation operations. Since November 27, 71 officers and 1,057 personnel have been involved in these missions. He mentioned that there are still reserve forces available to ensure continuous operations, and if flood conditions worsen, more personnel can be deployed in Kelantan and Terengganu.

He urged residents in flood-affected areas to evacuate promptly to allow rescue operations to focus on the most critical areas. He advised against waiting for floodwaters to rise significantly before evacuating, as early evacuation helps in managing resources efficiently.

Additionally, Khaled acknowledged that some armed forces personnel were also affected by the floods, living among civilian populations. Details of those affected will be provided in due course. Despite the flooding, border control duties will remain unaffected,
as these operations are essential and must continue irrespective of weather conditions or other disasters.

During his visit, Khaled presented donations to seven flood evacuees at the Malaysian Army’s 8th Infantry Brigade Headquarters, including one officer, five personnel of other ranks, and one civilian, residing in Tumpat, Kota Bharu, Pasir Mas, Pasir Puteh, and Bachok.