Besut: The Besut District Disaster Action Council will be counting on amateur radio services, besides walkie-talkies, to launch communication during floods, especially in the district’s interior areas.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Besut police chief Supt Azamuddin Ahmad @ Abu stated that cooperation would be established with the Besut Main Amateur Radio Club (Bestrac), which is ready to provide expertise and radio equipment. He emphasized the importance of amateur radio in overcoming communication coverage disruptions during the Northeast Monsoon season, particularly in the Hulu Besut area. The radio equipment can last three to four days even without electricity, making it essential for assisting authorities in transmitting emergency calls, such as those related to ill residents or inaccessible roads.

Azamuddin highlighted that wireless amateur radio aids rescue teams in contacting victims in flood-affected zones using a designated frequency band, facilitating swift rescue operations. He mentioned that 75 community representatives have been briefed and trained, with some equipped with walkie-talkies that have a considerable range, to prepare for the anticipated floods early next month. Additionally, 25 fibreglass boats are ready for the district, and 509 personnel from various agencies will be deployed during the monsoon.

Azamuddin also identified seven flood hotspots in the district, including Felda Tenang, Kampung Keruak, and Kampung La, advising residents to evacuate early to prevent being stranded.