Kuala lumpur: Malaysia needs to develop an integrated air disaster management system that enables all agencies to share a common operational picture, follow unified directives, and respond simultaneously to ensure faster and more effective emergency operations. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi emphasized the importance of a coordinated approach at the launch of the National Air Disaster Preparedness 2026: Air Disaster Management Workshop.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid stressed the necessity of a "one system, one command, and one action" principle in the nation's disaster management framework. He highlighted that the assets, expertise, and authority of various agencies should be aligned towards the common goal of saving lives and swiftly managing emergencies. "We cannot wait until an actual crisis occurs to determine whether our directives are clear, our communication is effective, and all agencies are capable of operating in unison," he stated.
The Deputy Prime Minister underscored the importance of a unified national response during crises, urging agencies to act as a cohesive team with a clear objective. The event was attended by prominent figures, including Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Hasbi Habibollah and National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) director-general Datuk Meor Ismail Meor Akim, among others.
Ahmad Zahid explained that the effectiveness of a disaster management system should be gauged by the coordination of resources under pressure rather than the quantity of assets or personnel. He called for a system that allows agencies to view situations uniformly, understand directives, and act in unison.
The workshop serves as a platform for agencies and stakeholders to test procedures, evaluate communication protocols, and clarify operational roles. Ahmad Zahid identified four key priorities for the workshop: reviewing the chain of command and decision-making authority, enhancing information sharing and communication, expanding scenario-based training, and accelerating digitalisation.
He assured continued government support for enhancing disaster preparedness through improved policies and coordination. Emphasizing aviation safety as a strategic national issue, Ahmad Zahid noted the aviation sector's crucial role in connecting people and supporting tourism, highlighting last year's 42.2 million international tourists and substantial tourism revenue.
The workshop, which concludes tomorrow, sees participation from over 100 representatives from various sectors, including government ministries, law enforcement, and emergency agencies, alongside industry stakeholders.