Monsoon season prompts heightened police readiness across Johor
JOHOR BARU: Police have identified 874 flood-prone locations in Johor as the north-east monsoon is expected to bring heavy rainfall until January.
State police chief Comm Datuk Ab Rahaman Arsad said the identification of the locations was part of a coordinated effort to strengthen readiness at all levels amid widespread flooding concerns.
He said a total of 1,280 officers and personnel are currently on standby, backed by over 900 assets that can be mobilised anytime.
Comm Ab Rahaman said police have reinforced preparedness across all departments and contingents, especially in high-risk districts which usually experience recurrent flooding during the monsoon.
“Johor is among the states likely to be impacted by the north-east monsoon.
“As such, police have taken the initiative to increase manpower and enhance logistical requirements to ensure rescue and evacuation operations can be activated swiftly,” he told reporters after the monthly assembly at the state police contingent headquarters yesterday.
“If conditions deteriorate, additional manpower would be mobilised from the contingent’s pool of more than 9,000 personnel, according to operational needs.
“We will also seek support from partner agencies such as the Fire and Rescue Department, Civil Defence Force, Health Ministry, Welfare Department and Rela if the flood situation becomes critical.”
He advised the public, especially those living in flood-prone areas, to be prepared for early evacuation to temporary relief centres if instructed.
“Whether or not it turns out to be a major flood, the people must be prepared. Do not wait until the last minute as early action can save lives,” he said.
Comm Ab Rahaman said for now, there are no plans to freeze leave for state police personnel, but added that only 20% are allowed to be away at a time.
