KUALA LUMPUR: The Armed Forces have made extensive preparations this year to ensure readiness in responding to flood disasters, including mobilising thousands of personnel and a wide range of assets across all three service branches, says Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
The Defence Minister said under Ops Murni, a total of 4,428 military personnel have been placed on standby, comprising 266 officers and 4,162 other ranks from all branches of the military.
"In addition, the military has prepared 506 land mobility assets, 7,355 watercraft and 19 air mobility assets for deployment when required," he said in his winding up speech at the Dewan Negara on Monday (Dec 15).
While the military's primary role is to safeguard national interests and sovereignty against both traditional and non-traditional security threats, Mohamed Khaled said it also remain fully prepared to undertake secondary responsibilities, particularly in providing assistance during natural disasters.
"This includes delivering aid to flood victims to minimise property damage and preventing loss of life.
"Ops Murni will continue to serve as the main humanitarian and emergency relief operation during flood situations, with military assets and personnel deployed to affected areas as needed.
"There was no cause for concern over the role, preparedness and utilisation of military assets in disaster response efforts," he added.
