Johor bahru: The Johor Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has identified 339 flood-prone locations across 10 districts as part of its preparations for the northeast monsoon season. Its director, Siti Rohani Nadir, highlighted that these locations include 66 in Muar, 47 in Batu Pahat, 44 in Johor Bahru, 31 in Kota Tinggi, 30 in Segamat, 27 each in Kluang and Kulai, 26 in Tangkak, 22 in Mersing, and 19 in Pontian.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Siti Rohani Nadir stated that 23 critical slope areas have also been identified in seven districts, including Segamat, Muar, Batu Pahat, Johor Bahru, Kluang, Mersing, and Kota Tinggi. The department currently has a total strength of 1,462 personnel to ensure optimal operational readiness. The logistics team is equipped with 46 four-wheel-drive vehicles, 11 lorries, and 47 marine assets ready for deployment. Additionally, basic water rescue equipment has been prepared, including 140 rescue ropes and 1,147 life jackets.

Siti Rohani also mentioned that 119 helicopter landing zones have been designated across the state to enhance aerial capability. These include 28 in Johor Bahru, 16 in Batu Pahat, 14 in Muar, 13 in Tangkak, 12 each in Segamat and Kota Tinggi, 11 in Mersing, two in Pontian, and one in Kulai.

Meanwhile, the Johor JBPM announced on Facebook that its Zone 3 team conducted a 4WD Driving Exercise and a Flood-Risk Area Study on September 29 in preparation for the monsoon season. The exercise, held at the National Park Corporation Complex in Kampung Peta, Mersing, involved Zone 3 officers, fire station chiefs, and selected drivers. Activities included 4WD driving training, briefings on geography and disaster risks, and field studies in flood-prone areas and Orang Asli settlements.

The exercise aimed to enhance 4WD driving skills in disaster situations and strengthen collaboration with external agencies for comprehensive preparedness during the northeast monsoon season. The 2025/2026 northeast monsoon is expected to occur from next month until March 2026, with the monsoon transition phase beginning from late October to November this year.