Latest updates: Kurup (third from right) being briefed on the Sabah NRES Mini Complex at the groundbreaking ceremony in Kota Kinabalu. — Bernama
KOTA KINABALU: The Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry (NRES) has made the enhancement of the national disaster early warning system one of its key priorities this year, in view of ongoing weather uncertainties caused by the north-east monsoon.
Its minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said the move is crucial as the latest forecast indicates that this year’s monsoon period is expected to extend until March.
“I have included the improvement of the early warning system as a key focus of the ministry, particularly in light of the current weather uncertainties being experienced in Sabah.
“As we increase our assets and strengthen management efficiency, we must also enhance our forecasting capabilities,” he told the media after officiating the groundbreaking ceremony of the Sabah NRES Mini Complex here yesterday, Bernama reported.
Also present was Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin.
Arthur said accurate forecasting supported by advanced technology and efficient management is critical, especially during the monsoon period, to ensure preparedness for potential disasters.
“We may not be able to control changes in the weather, but we can predict them to enable early preparations and reduce risks,” he added.
On Nov 14 last year, Malaysian Meteorological Department deputy director-general (operations) Ambun Dindang was reported as saying that the monsoon period, which began on Nov 13, was expected to continue until March.
The monsoon, which moves from north to south, typically affects Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang in its initial phase from November, before extending to Johor in the subsequent phase.
Sabah and Sarawak may also be affected, depending on the movement and intensity of the monsoon system.
Meanwhile, the construction of the Sabah NRES Mini Complex, involving a cost of RM80.9mil, is expected to be fully completed early 2029.
Kurup said the contractor entered the 6.77ha project site in Kepayan here, near the Kota Kinabalu International Airport, towards the end of last year, and construction is expected to take about 40 months.
