MORE than 37,000 personnel from various agencies have been deployed to manage the flood situation in Sabah and Sarawak, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

He said in a statement that the efforts were coordinated by the District Disaster Management Committee (JPBD) and the State Disaster Management Committee (JPBN) in the affected states.

“In Sarawak, more than 23,000 personnel from agencies such as the police, armed forces, Fire and Rescue Department, Civil Defence Force, Social Welfare Department and Health Ministry are involved in flood management.

“This is supported by logistical assets, including 526 land assets, 214 sea and river assets, 15 air assets and 269 support assets.”

He added that in Sabah, 14,209 personnel had been mobilised, supported by 977 land assets, 463 water assets and 16 air assets.

Zahid, who also chairs the Central Disaster Management Committee, expressed satisfaction with the coordination undertaken by the authorities.

“I extend my deepest gratitude to all response agency personnel in Sabah and Sarawak, who are working tirelessly to ensure that the safety, comfort and health of disaster victims remain under control,” he said.

Zahid said with improving weather conditions, personnel, in collaboration with non-governmental organisations and the community, can focus on postdisaster recovery and repair efforts.

“The government has allocated initial funding to all states and response agencies for operations during the 2024/2025 northeast monsoon. This includes ensuring temporary relief centres (PPS) are equipped with adequate basic facilities for flood victims.”

He also called for the registration and verification process for victims to be simplified and expedited to prevent delays in the disbursement of Bantuan Wang Ihsan.

“I will instruct the National Disaster Management Agency, as the secretariat to JPBP, to continue monitoring the preparedness of all agencies involved at all levels in disaster response.”

He reminded the public to remain cautious. “The public is advised to prepare an emergency bag, evacuate to designated PPS immediately when instructed, seek higher and safer ground, prevent children from playing in floodwaters, drains, mining pools, water bodies and rivers; and avoid touching electrical equipment, cables or wires.”

He added that the National Disaster Control Centre would continue to monitor the situation.