Kuala lumpur: Malaysia's first purpose-built Permanent Disaster Evacuation Centre (PPKB) has been officially completed at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Seri Medan, aiming to enhance the country's disaster preparedness and safeguard the welfare of citizens, as announced by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the RM7.66 million project was strategically located in Batu Pahat, identified as a high-risk area due to 17 flood incidents recorded between 2022 and 2026, which necessitated the evacuation of 36,000 people. Ahmad Zahid, also the National Disaster Management Council chairman, highlighted that the PPKB development marks a shift in disaster management to prevent disruptions to schooling during evacuations.

The facility can accommodate 500 individuals and includes an open hall, futsal courts, cooking facilities, toilets, a surau, a treatment room, and special accommodation for senior citizens, women, and persons with disabilities. Ahmad Zahid emphasized the importance of not burdening school staff and students by using school facilities for evacuation purposes.

Furthermore, Ahmad Zahid, who serves as the Minister of Rural and Regional Development, encouraged the local community to creatively utilize the multipurpose facility during non-flood periods, suggesting activities like pickleball, ensuring the premises remain well-maintained.

The centre's construction is part of the National Disaster Risk Reduction Policy 2030, aiming to establish at least one PPKB in every state. The government plans to implement nine pilot projects starting in 2024, with six new projects and three upgrades nationwide in 2025.