KAJANG: To better handle the risks posed by the current North-East Monsoon (MTL), the Malaysian Civil Defense Force (APM) has established the Support Disaster Response Team (Paras) with 14,840 members, prepared to respond promptly and effectively across state and district boundaries whenever required.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Sabah, Sarawak Affairs and Special Functions) Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said that a total of 5,120 APM members have been assigned to various teams, primarily in Kelantan, Terengganu, Johor, and Pahang.
Currently, 14,840 individuals, including 1,203 officers and 13,637 members, stand ready to address the MTL situation.
For Pahang, the PARAS teams will comprise members from the Eastern Region Civil Defense Training Center (Pulapat) and Negeri Sembilan. Johor will receive assistance from the Melaka PARAS team and the Southern Region Civil Defense Training Center (Pulapas).
He stressed that establishing Paras is part of the government's nationwide strategy to enhance disaster preparedness.
"Considering previous experiences dealing with natural disasters, the decision to form these teams was made.
"These teams consist not only of APM members but also individuals undergoing training at the various centres.
"They will support government agencies in states that require additional assistance," added Armizan after launching "Sigap Pertahananan: Siaga MTL" at the APM Headquarters.
Regarding APM's operational readiness, 991 boats and 675 land assets are available for water-based and land-based operations.
