Beijing:Malaysia is seeking China's expertise in disaster early warning systems to better prepare for unpredictable weather conditions during the Northeast Monsoon. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi emphasized the importance of a satellite-based system that could enhance weather forecasts, allowing the government to implement effective mitigation measures.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the advanced data from such systems would aid the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) in issuing timely warnings in disaster-prone areas, particularly when rainfall and wind surges exceed forecasts. Dr Ahmad Zahid stated that Malaysia would seek cooperation from China in global weather forecasting, including acquiring equipment and satellite-based systems. He highlighted the need for MetMalaysia to have adequate resources to provide faster and more accurate forecasts.

During his five-day working visit to Beijing and Tianjin, Dr Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Rural and Regional Development Minister, plans to discuss the proposed cooperation with China's Minister of Public Security, Wang Xiaohong. Discussions will include ways to expedite the acquisition of the necessary systems.

Regarding preparations for the Northeast Monsoon, Dr Ahmad Zahid, who chairs the Central Disaster Management Committee, noted that government agencies are now better prepared than in previous years. Temporary evacuation centers have been upgraded, and the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) has coordinated early preparations with disaster management committees at various levels to minimize potential disaster impacts.

These efforts have successfully reduced flood-related losses from approximately RM960 million in 2024 to RM600 million last year. Dr Ahmad Zahid expressed hope that early measures and cooperation with China would allow for more effective flood evacuations and preparations in the future.