GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia has identified 51 high-risk flash flood hotspots and stepped up daily patrols in preparation for the 2026/2027 Northeast Monsoon.
Its director, Mohamad Shoki Hamzah, said Seberang Perai Tengah recorded the highest number of hotspots at 18, followed by Barat Daya (13), Timur Laut (10), Seberang Perai Utara (six) and Seberang Perai Selatan (six).
On the island, areas receiving particular attention include Jalan P. Ramlee, Jalan Patani, Jalan Mahsuri and the vicinity of Teluk Kumbar, including Kampung Paya and Kampung Suluk, as well as Balik Pulau.
"In Seberang Perai, high-risk areas include Sungai Jawi, Kampung Valdor, Sungai Juru, the area around SP Arena, Sungai Jarak in Tasek Gelugor, and several villages in Bertam, including Kampung Permatang Saga and Kampung Lahar Tiang," he said on Sunday (Nov 1).
He said daily patrols and continuous monitoring were being conducted at the identified locations to enable fire and rescue personnel to respond promptly to flash floods or rising river levels.
Mohamad Shoki said the department was maintaining at least 80% of its personnel on duty at fire stations, with leave applications strictly regulated throughout the monsoon season.
He said the department had also conducted a Flood Operation Logistics Testing and Inspection Day simultaneously at all fire stations on Saturday to assess the readiness of its assets and equipment.
"The inspections covered rescue boats, land-based machinery, utility vehicles and supporting equipment, including personal flotation devices (PFDs) and chainsaws.
"Testing is essential to ensure that all assets are in optimal condition and functioning properly," he said.
He added that the department's Water Rescue Team (PPDA) had undergone intensive refresher training at Pulau Kendi in mid-October to enhance its technical skills, diving capabilities and ability to conduct water-based victim evacuation operations.
Meanwhile, Penang police chief Datuk Dennis Lim Kwang Keng said a meeting of the Penang Contingent-level Disaster Operations Response Committee was held last Friday to strengthen the preparedness of the police and relevant agencies for the 2026/2027 Northeast Monsoon.
He said the discussions focused on human resource capacity, the readiness of assets and logistics, and inter-agency coordination in responding to potential disasters.
"The discussions also centred on refining disaster response plans, coordinating operational assignments and resource allocation, ensuring readiness for rescue operations, and enhancing communication channels between agencies," he said. - Bernama
