Kota bharu: The National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) has assured that all disaster response agencies across the nation are fully prepared to tackle the challenges posed by the Northeast Monsoon. NADMA director-general Meor Ismail Meor Akim emphasized that extensive preparations had been conducted well in advance, with the recent preparedness launch on October 30 serving merely as a symbolic gesture to enhance inter-agency coordination.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Meor Ismail highlighted that the agencies were already on standby before the launch, underscoring the symbolic nature of the event. He stated that NADMA, alongside rescue agencies, has a substantial force of approximately 100,000 personnel ready to assist flood victims, supported by a range of logistical assets such as lorries, boats, helicopters, and supply storage warehouses.

In Kelantan, 38 relief centers have been established, with Meor Ismail expressing satisfaction with the orderly management and adherence to established operating standards at these centers. He noted that the overall control at the centers is adequate, with sufficient food and comfortable accommodations, and praised the cooperation among agencies in managing the victims.

The inspection further revealed that areas near the centers, previously affected by floodwaters, have seen improvements, with water levels receding significantly. Meor Ismail expressed hope for continued favorable weather conditions.

While Kelantan has reported a higher number of victims compared to other affected states like Perlis, Kedah, Penang, Perak, Selangor, and Terengganu, the situation remains under control. Meor Ismail underscored the importance of victims registering at the relief centers to ensure efficient aid distribution, noting that the RM1,000 disaster aid would be credited directly to bank accounts or claimed at Bank Simpanan Nasional counters for those without accounts.

He also cautioned the public against the influence of old flood videos circulating on social media, advising them to rely on official information channels to avoid unnecessary panic.