PETALING JAYA: The Crisis Relief Squad of MCA (CRSM) should harness modern drone technology to bolster their relief efforts in flood-stricken regions, says Datuk Chong Sin Woon.
The MCA secretary-general said that drones have become a fundamental part of China's disaster management, offering a powerful tool for assessing the severity of flood zones and delivering aid to isolated areas.
"We sent our CRSM to China for training to see how they utilise this technology. It's easy to manoeuvre, and it provides us with a better understanding of the flood zones and unreachable areas. It can be used for issuing warnings and can even operate at night," he explained.
Chong is advocating for the CRSM to be equipped with drones and intends to propose this to the National Disaster Management Agency and the government.
He shared these thoughts at the International Volunteer Day launch on Friday (Dec 2), where crisis relief equipment was also handed over to CRSM volunteers in high-risk flood areas.
"It's time to upgrade and apply these new technologies in our relief work," he added.
The CRSM had visited China and interacted with organisations such as the Beijing Volunteer Service Federation, the Beijing Charity Volunteer Federation, the Rescue Team of Ramunion, the Red Cross Society of China, and the Canal Lighthouse Emergency Rescue Centre.
Chong disclosed that these organisations intend to donate drones and lifeboats to support CRSM rescue efforts in Malaysia.
He also reported that the CRSM has mobilised at least 200 volunteers.
"We had been briefed in October about the severity of the flooding this year, and the predictions have been accurate," he said.
"Floods were forecasted in Kelantan, Terengganu, Sabah, and Kedah so we must be prepared. This is just the first wave of floods, and more are expected.
"I hope for more donations, including medical supplies, food, and, of course, more volunteers to come forward and join us," he added.
Chong urged residents in low-lying areas to be vigilant, prepare essential supplies, follow the authorities' guidance, and prioritise safety.
He also encouraged all citizens to join in the disaster relief efforts and support the victims.
Meanwhile, CRSM secretary-general and GoCare Malaysia advisor Ng Sing Phing said that CRSM plans to expand its post-disaster rebuilding efforts and seeks to collaborate with all sectors to help clean affected homes, support community recovery, and help victims rebuild their lives quickly.
The launch event is a continuation of the successful GoCare BeTheOne series of activities, including community care, health checks, charity sales, and disaster relief.
Among the CRSM partners present at the event were National Cancer Society Malaysia, AST Group, Ria Insan Sdn Bhd, Nano Medic and Rayaco.
