Ipoh:Preparedness in disaster management is crucial in mitigating property losses, including damage to public assets and infrastructure, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid highlighted that the country experienced disaster-related losses amounting to RM636.9 million last year, with RM380.2 million involving public assets and infrastructure. This was a decrease from the RM933.4 million reported in 2024, emphasizing the importance of preparedness in protecting both lives and economic interests. He stressed the role of early warning systems and awareness programs in enhancing public readiness for potential risks.

During the launch of National Preparedness Month (BKN) 2026 at the Ipoh Convention Centre, Ahmad Zahid, who also chairs the Central Disaster Management Committee, emphasized the need for effective disaster response and risk reduction. He noted that the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) provides crucial early warnings to identify hotspots prone to floods and other hazards.

Ahmad Zahid underscored the importance of integrating disaster risk reduction into land use planning and urban development, as well as river management and monitoring high-risk areas. He mentioned that timely and clear communication is vital for ensuring public safety during disasters.

He also called for the implementation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction Policy 2030 at the state level, with tailored action plans and clear agency responsibilities. He announced the development of the Cell Broadcast System by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), which will send alerts to mobile phones in at-risk areas.

The Deputy Prime Minister acknowledged the support of nearly 30,000 volunteers from 45 agencies across 14 states who participated in over 1,000 disaster relief missions in the past ten months. He emphasized the need for clear communication and coordination to ensure efficient disaster response and public awareness during National Preparedness Month.