Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Amateur Radio Transmitters' Society (MARTS) has activated its Disaster Response across the national amateur radio network as floods worsen on the east coast and in the northern part of the peninsula. MARTS president Mohd Aris Bernawi stated that this activation aims to ensure amateur radio communications function as an effective support system for government rescue agencies' efforts.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the response mechanism is based on two primary references: the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) Directive No. 1 and the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU) technical guidelines. This combination ensures accurate communication coordination during disaster operations, Mohd Aris said in a statement.
Mohd Aris emphasized that all MARTS coordination heads at the state and district levels must report to the Disaster Operations Control Centre (PKOB) before undertaking any tasks. He cautioned against voluntary activation without official coordination for administrative and safety reasons.
To ensure effective communication, Mohd Aris highlighted the importance of adhering to IARU network ethics. This includes establishing certified Net Control Stations (NCSs) to manage traffic flow and using designated emergency frequencies. Emergency messages and logistical needs must be prioritized, and situation reports recorded in a structured format to maintain accuracy.
Operator safety is a priority under the IARU Safety Guidelines, with operators prohibited from entering high-risk areas without proper personal protective equipment. Additionally, operators should be prepared with enough power, food, and medicine to sustain operations for at least 72 hours without external support.
Mohd Aris underscored the role of amateur radio in disaster situations, stating that it acts as a professional ambassador for national communications. By integrating NADMA directives with IARU technical standards, every radio transmission is aimed at supporting life-saving efforts. He urged all members to maintain professionalism and readiness to serve the nation.
MARTS also called on licensed amateur radio operators to monitor designated emergency frequencies and prepare for potential deployment. The situation in Hatyai, Thailand, where electricity and telecommunications were disrupted, highlights the crucial role of the amateur radio community in such crises, the statement added.