Participants learning the right way of rescue knots during the programme.
JASIN: A three-day intensive training programme to enhance flood crisis management capabilities was held from Friday (April 25) to Sunday (April 27).
The programme, jointly organised by the Crisis Relief Squad of MCA (CRSM) and the Melaka Civil Defence Force’s (APM) Corporate Associate Officers, marks a significant step in preparing volunteers to respond effectively during emergencies.
Training took place at Avocado Village, a camping and recreational site by the scenic Chin Chin Lake.
Melaka APM's Corporate Associate Officers, led by chairman Associate Colonel (PA) Mike Thien, conducted practical demonstrations and shared expertise on using lifeboats and life jackets, radio telecommunications, disaster coordination, and rescue operations in flood scenarios.
Associate Colonel (PA) Mike Thien (right) getting some tips from the representatives of China's Blue Sky Rescue during the programme at Jasin.
The programme also included night water rescue techniques.
Notable contributors included experienced seafarer Associate Captain (PA) B. Kumaran, who shared insights on water rescue techniques; Associate Colonel (PA) David Lee Hock Kee, who discussed effective use of communication devices during crises; and Associate Captain (PA) T.K. Song, who covered engine maintenance and navigating vessels in water.
Associate Major (PA) Teoh Cheng Guan conducted a session on life-saving techniques.
In an interview, Thien expressed gratitude to Melaka APM Director, Lieutenant Colonel (PA) Kamarulsyah Muslim, for supporting and encouraging collaboration with CRSM.
He noted the presence of observers from China’s largest non-governmental humanitarian organisation, the Blue Sky Rescue Team, which boosted participant morale.
"This initiative marks a crucial step in establishing structured volunteer management during flood emergencies.
The sessions also reinforced the core principles of water rescue operations,” he said.
In a statement, CRSM highlighted that the training was designed to boost the operational preparedness and professional skillset of its Search and Rescue (SAR) team through realistic, hands-on scenarios.
"Volunteers from across the country took part, showing exemplary discipline, teamwork, and commitment,” the statement read.
CRSM emphasised immersive field exercises, including night-time rescue simulations and tactical SAR drills, allowing participants to gain valuable, experience-driven insights into real-life flood response.
The closing ceremony on Sunday (April 27) was officiated by Melaka MCA Chairman, Datuk Lim Ban Hong, who stressed the importance of volunteer preparedness.
“Disasters often occur without warning, so strengthening training and readiness of our rescue teams is not merely precautionary but a matter of national security,” he said.
Lim praised CRSM’s proactive approach, reaffirming its role as a trusted community body and a dependable first responder during national emergencies, including floods.
"This joint training has not only improved the competency of our volunteers but also fostered deeper coordination with key agencies, paving the way for a more integrated civil defence network,” he added.
Lim encouraged increased youth involvement in volunteerism, urging young Malaysians to acquire practical rescue skills and embrace their civic responsibilities.
“Every trained volunteer is a vital line of defence for our nation in times of crisis,” he added.
The programme was held with support from the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA).
