PETALING JAYA: The Education Ministry is prepared for any floods in the country as monsoon season approaches, says Fadhlina Sidek.
The Education Minister said over 5,000 schools nationwide will be used as temporary relief centres if the need arises.
“Currently, there are 5,063 schools that have been gazetted as relief centres and we have prepared detailed instructions for about seven or eight schools, which will be transformed into permanent transfer centres.
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"The ministry has also initiated preliminary measures in preparation for the north-east monsoon 2023/24, set to commence this month.
“I believe this programme holds significant importance, as it thoroughly examines potential preparations and ensures our readiness to the fullest extent possible,” she told reporters after the launch of monsoon preparations here on Monday (Nov 6).
Among the steps taken to enhance flood preparedness of those under the ministry are multi-level disaster management committee meetings.
According to a ministry statement, these meetings include representatives from key disaster management agencies such as the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma), Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), the Social Welfare Department and the Health Ministry.
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The ministry has also established a Flood Disaster Task Force Committee and activated disaster operations rooms to track the status of flooded educational institutions, relief centres in schools, and the number of victims housed in centres under the ministry's jurisdiction.
These operation rooms operate either virtually or physically according to current needs, the statement added.
The ministry also plans to source and train volunteers to help with flood relief efforts from teaching staff, members of its Sports and Culture Association (Mesca), and trainees from teacher training institutes.
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The minIstry will provide plastic chairs and tables to schools at risk of flooding and is distributing volunteer kits for post-flood cleaning activities.
During the monsoon, the ministry anticipates experiencing four to six stretches of continuous rainfall, potentially leading to flooding, especially along the east coast of the peninsula and in the western region of Sarawak.
“Continuous rain may occur in states on the west coast due to strong monsoon rains or the presence of a low-pressure system in the region.
“The people are encouraged to remain vigilant and to keep updated through weather forecasts and warnings issued by MetMalaysia,” the statement added.
