PUCHONG: The construction of a disaster simulation site for the Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) at Pulau Meranti is expected to be completed by February next year, says Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan.

The Deputy Works Minister said the project, overseen by the Selangor Public Works Department (JKR), is 99% complete. “It is the first disaster simulation centre and the second in the Asean region after Singapore.

“The purpose is to enhance the efficiency and professionalism of SMART members in dealing with various disasters.

“We aim to become a highly efficient rescue team. There are about 150 SMART members and the centre will provide optimal training for them,” he told reporters after visiting the simulation site at the SMART headquarters yesterday, Bernama reported.

The project, which costs nearly RM33.4mil, is owned by the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) under the Prime Minister’s Department.

Ahmad said the facility would be able to simulate various disaster scenarios, forming the basis for comprehensive, near-reality-based training exercises.

He said the site’s facilities and technology are expected to support all the requirements for SMART to maintain its recognition by the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group, a body under the United Nations that coordinates the international network of rescue teams for cross-border disaster operations.

The simulation training modules include cable car rescue (cable car accident rescue module), underground train accidents, rescuing from tilted and partially collapsed buildings and abseiling tower exercises.