Federal Territories Kuala Lumpur Fire and rescue department teams conducting a water rescue drill at Tasik biru in Kundang, as part of their training to improve coordination and response readiness. — Photos courtesy of Fire and rescue department
RESIDENTS in Kuala Lumpur’s flood-prone hotspots have been urged to stay alert as the north-east monsoon sets in, bringing the risk of sudden downpours and flash floods.
To strengthen preparedness, the Federal Territories Kuala Lumpur Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has carried out intensive training sessions to boost its teams’ readiness for emergencies, expected from the middle of this month until next March.
During a session at Tasik Biru in Kundang, Rawang, JBPM and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) rescue team members underwent practical drills to sharpen their operational capability.
The training was launched by Kuala Lumpur JBPM director Hassan As’ari Omar, with DBKL Enforcement Department director Mohd Muzammer Jamaluddin in attendance.
“This is to ensure they are prepared ahead of the north-east monsoon,” said Kuala Lumpur JBPM Fire and Rescue Services division deputy director of operations M. Fatta M. Amin Omar.
Around 80 personnel, including senior officers, took part.
Hassan As’ari (second left) and Fatta (right) gearing up during the monsoon preparedness drills in Rawang. Federal Territories Kuala Lumpur Fire and Rescue Department teams conducting a water rescue drill at Tasik Biru in Kundang, as part of their training to improve coordination and response readiness. — Photos courtesy of Fire and Rescue Department
Every boat, engine and rescue asset was inspected and tested to ensure all the equipment was in working order and station crews were confident in using them during emergencies.
A major component of the programme focused on boat handling and the use of marine assets.
Participants were trained to operate critical water rescue tools such as personal flotation devices, scuba gear, and throw bags.
The drills emphasised quick, safe evacuation procedures for water-related incidents.
“These drills are essential because officers must understand the limits of different boats, whether aluminium, fibre or HDPE, and know exactly how much each can carry,” Fatta said.
“In an emergency, there is no time to debate whether a boat can take five people or six. Rescuers must act immediately.
Hassan As’ari (right) inspecting scuba and rescue equipment during the monsoon preparedness briefing.
“The training ensures they know their assets well before they are called into fast-moving flood operations,” he added.
Personnel and equipment from all Kuala Lumpur fire stations were brought together, giving teams a chance to handle their boats in real conditions and assess performance directly in the water.
Although Kuala Lumpur generally experiences fewer major floods, the department maintains a high level of readiness.
One key initiative is the Rapid Deployment Team, an emergency support unit that can be mobilised to other states when disasters strike.
Kuala Lumpur JBPM has 938 firefighters trained in basic search and rescue, across 20 stations.
Its specialised Rapid Deployment Team includes 21 expert divers (from the scuba unit) and three drivers, all on 24-hour standby for nationwide deployment during the monsoon season.
“Last year, the team was sent to Kelantan to support flood rescue operations,” said Fatta.
“The department provides not only trained personnel but also critical assets and logistics needed to manage large-scale disasters outside Kuala Lumpur.”
During the Kelantan mission, he said the team had to rely heavily on local assistance.
“In a major flood when water rises several metres high, the landscape changes entirely.
“All you see are trees. For rescuers unfamiliar with the area, it becomes almost impossible to know where they are.
“That is why local help is so important, and we were fortunate to receive strong support from the people in Kelantan.”
Even though Kuala Lumpur does not experience large-scale floods, JBPM remains vigilant.
The Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) has identified 18 hotspots in the city where heavy rain could cause river levels to rise rapidly, with the potential for overflowing or breached banks.
“These are river-based hotspots, so we know exactly where the risks are,” Fatta said.
“For these areas, fibreglass boats are preferred because they are stable, lighter than aluminium and better suited for Kuala Lumpur’s narrow urban waterways.
“These boats can handle tight turns and narrower channels.
“That is why training is important. We need to know which boats to use and how to use them effectively.”
He said boat operators must be well-trained and able to navigate safely in rapidly changing conditions.
“Drivers must know when to deploy the craft and how to execute safe manoeuvres during a rescue.”
Fatta also reminded residents living or working near identified hotspots to stay alert when early warning sirens were activated.
“There are 18 sirens installed across these areas. The moment you hear one, you should stop and wait for instructions.
“Fire and rescue personnel will usually arrive quickly to guide the public, but do not take anything for granted.
“Keep your important documents in one place.
“If you need to move out quickly, you can grab them and go. Every second counts.”
