Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia is set to broaden its international disaster management collaborations, including new partnerships with Japan, Russia, and South Korea, in a move to strengthen the capabilities of the country's elite Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) director-general Datuk Khairul Shahril Idrus stated that negotiations to finalize memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with these countries are expected to be concluded this year. "We've already discussed the MoU with Japan, while talks with Russia and South Korea are in their final stages. However, the final decision will depend on Cabinet approval, as it must be in line with Malaysia's national interests," he mentioned in a recent interview.

Malaysia has already signed MoUs with countries such as Singapore, Indonesia, and Trkiye, reflecting international recognition of SMART's expertise, particularly in search and rescue (SAR) operations. "These MoUs are not only formalizing operational collaboration but also serve as recognition of SMART's capabilities, with other nations keen to learn from our experience," Khairul Shahril said.

The cooperation aims to strengthen strategic ties while enhancing SAR efficiency through joint training with elite foreign rescue teams. To ensure SMART remains relevant, the government is considering expanding the team's manpower, especially in light of the experience gained during SAR efforts in the Gaziantep earthquake in Trkiye in February 2023.

Currently, the team's composition complies with international rescue standards recommended by the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG), consisting of two units totaling 160 personnel. SMART comprises members from the Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM), Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), and the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF).

However, Khairul Shahril noted that personnel typically return to their original units once their SMART service ends. Discussions are ongoing with the Public Service Department (PSD) to explore ways of retaining their expertise within the team. "We're also exploring ways for former SMART members to continue participating in training, even after returning to their original departments. This would allow us to mobilize them for operations when needed," he said.

At the regional level, SMART has participated in simulation drills organized by the ASEAN Secretariat and has received requests from neighboring countries, including Brunei, Thailand, and Indonesia, to act as advisors as their teams work toward INSARAG certification. Malaysia has also been invited to serve as consultants at various international SAR conferences, a testament to SMART's world-class standing.

"SMART is the second team in Southeast Asia to be recognized by INSARAG after Singapore. The team's increasing role as a global reference point in SAR operations further elevates Malaysia's international profile. The willingness of other nations, including advanced economies, to collaborate with us in training underscores SMART's global reputation and, by extension, enhances Malaysia's stature," added Khairul Shahril.