Kuala lumpur: The MADANI Government has ramped up its nationwide preparedness efforts for the Northeast Monsoon (MTL), which commenced yesterday, by enhancing coordination across various agencies, including the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF). Its spokesperson, Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, announced that the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) has identified 3,682 flood hotspots nationwide, while the MAF's participation is on standby for deployment under Op Murni.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi, who also serves as the Communications Minister, revealed that the Department of Minerals and Geoscience has identified 254 critical slopes. Additionally, 1,768 hydrology stations, 614 flood-warning sirens, and 285 pump houses have been prepared for the monsoon. Fahmi mentioned that additional mobile pumps have been deployed, and several dams have been monitored for water levels exceeding critical thresholds, ensuring the safety of nearby residents.

Fahmi also highlighted the government's efforts in communication readiness, explaining that upgrades have been conducted on several telecommunications towers to prevent service disruption during floods. The upgrades include elevating equipment that was previously located at ground level to avoid submersion. He observed the completed work in several flood-prone areas in Sabah and noted that preparations are progressing well.

Temporary evacuation centers will be equipped with Starlink or WiFi to ensure evacuees have reliable internet access, Fahmi added. Earlier today, MetMalaysia deputy director-general (Operations) Ambun Dindang stated that Kelantan, Terengganu, and Pahang are expected to be the first states to experience continuous heavy rainfall during the monsoon. This weather phase began yesterday and is forecast to last until March next year. The monsoon typically impacts these states from November to December before extending to Pahang and Johor in the subsequent phase.