PUTRAJAYA: An allocation of RM10mil has been earmarked to address the impact of the southwest monsoon, says the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma).
The agency has been tasked with coordinating the distribution of the allocation under the National Disaster Assistance Trust Fund.
“The technical and disaster management response agencies are prepared for the southwest monsoon season,” it said.
On May 14, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the country was expected to face several negative effects, including health issues, water supply shortages, forest or bushfires, haze and reduced agricultural yields, due to the monsoon.
He reminded all disaster management agencies to take active steps to mitigate risks.
Nadma said relevant agencies, including the Fire and Rescue Department, the Environment Department, Health Ministry, the Irrigation and Drainage Department, and the Minerals and Geosciences Department, have made preparations to face the southwest monsoon.
It added that these preparations included providing alternative water sources, namely 640 wells for domestic use and 104 wells for fire prevention and extinguishing in peat land and forest areas.
According to Nadma, cloud seeding operations will also be carried out when necessary.
“The level of preparedness and proactive measures by the agencies in managing the impact of the monsoon are expected to overcome the public’s anxiety and avoid the spread of inaccurate information.
“The public are advised to be more aware and take precautions to avoid the risk of heat stroke,” it said, Bernama reported.
Weekly reports on the impact of hot weather can be found on the Nadma website at www.nadma.gov.my.
The latest weather information and warnings can be obtained through various mediums such as electronic media, social media, the official website, the myCuaca application, as well as MetMalaysia Hotline at 1-300-22-1638.
