KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 16 (Bernama) -- The establishment of the MADANI Disaster Squad comes at the right time to enhance welfare and emergency support for citizens affected by disasters, said Prime Minister's wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.
The Bandar Tun Razak MP said Malaysia frequently faces natural disasters such as floods, storms, fires, and other emergencies that require swift and effective response.
“Recognising this need, the formation of the MADANI Disaster Squad is a timely initiative to provide welfare, emergency assistance, and comprehensive support to disaster victims,” she said at the squad’s launch event here today.
Earlier, Dr Wan Azizah presented the official appointment letters to the squad members and witnessed a flood rescue simulation conducted by the team.
She added that the squad will act as a community volunteer force, ready to be deployed during disasters to assist in evacuation, aid distribution, and management of basic needs at temporary relief centres.
“Such initiatives not only promote volunteerism but also strengthen community cooperation, especially during challenging times,” she said, adding that the squad reflects the spirit of compassion, humanity, and social responsibility in line with the values and aspirations of Malaysia MADANI.
Meanwhile, political secretary to the Prime Minister Datuk Azman Abidin said the squad complements existing disaster response teams, particularly in terms of community support and logistics.
“The MADANI Disaster Squad is aimed at assisting disaster victims not only in Kuala Lumpur but nationwide, supporting other disaster response teams,” he said.
Azman added that, for now, the squad has been established only for the Bandar Tun Razak parliamentary constituency and is equipped with basic assets, including boats, to assist in flood and other disaster rescue operations.
The squad currently has 50 members who will undergo phased training in collaboration with the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) to ensure operational readiness.
He also said that members are selected from local youths who are healthy and motivated, and that all deployments will be coordinated with relevant authorities such as APM, police, and fire and rescue services to ensure safety and effectiveness.
-- BERNAMA
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