Rome:Kelantan Low-lying areas near the basins of Sungai Kelantan, Sungai Golok, and Sungai Galas have been identified as locations at risk of flooding during the Northeast Monsoon, according to Kelantan Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) director Farhan Sufyan Borhan.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, these flood-risk areas encompass all ten districts in the state, with the focus on settlements near the river basins and low-lying areas. The Kelantan JBPM has reached a 90 percent preparedness level, ensuring equipment and operational assets are ready to face the monsoon season. The department operates 22 fire stations with 663 personnel, supported by 223 Auxiliary Fire Brigade members.

The department also receives aid from 16 active Volunteer Fire Brigades and 51 Community Fire Brigades to assist in rescue operations during floods. However, Farhan Sufyan noted that the existing personnel and assets might be insufficient if a major flood occurs, such as those in 2014 and 2024, particularly in terms of operational asset needs.

To address potential shortcomings, the regional forward base, typically located in Terengganu, will support operations in Kelantan, Terengganu, and Pahang during floods requiring additional personnel and rescue assets. JBPM is also planning to utilize a regional forward base concept to deploy personnel and assets from other states, including Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, and Putrajaya, to assist areas in need during disasters.