NORTHEAST MONSOON: JOHOR JBPM IDENTIFIES 339 FLOOD-PRONE LOCATIONS

JOHOR BAHRU, Oct 9 (Bernama) -- The Johor Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has identified 339 flood-prone locations across 10 districts as part of its preparations for the northeast monsoon season.

Its director, Siti Rohani Nadir, said the locations include 66 in Muar, Batu Pahat (47), Johor Bahru (44), Kota Tinggi (31), Segamat (30), Kluang (27), Kulai (27), Tangkak (26), Mersing (22) and Pontian (19).

“In addition, 23 critical slope areas have been identified in seven districts, namely Segamat, Muar, Batu Pahat, Johor Bahru, Kluang, Mersing and Kota Tinggi,” she told Bernama when contacted today.

She said the department currently has a total strength of 1,462 personnel, comprising senior officers, firefighters of various ranks and auxiliary fire officers, to ensure optimal operational readiness.

“In terms of logistics, we have 46 four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicles, 11 lorries and 47 marine assets ready for deployment at any time. Basic water rescue equipment has also been prepared, including 140 rescue ropes and 1,147 life jackets,” she added.

To enhance aerial capability, Siti Rohani said 119 helicopter landing zones have been designated across the state, with 28 of them in Johor Bahru, Batu Pahat (16), Muar (14), Tangkak (13), Segamat (12), Kota Tinggi (12), Mersing (11), Pontian (two) and Kulai (one).

Meanwhile, in a Facebook post, the Johor JBPM said its Zone 3 team conducted a 4WD Driving Exercise and a Flood-Risk Area Study on Sept 29 as part of preparations for the monsoon season.

Held at the National Park Corporation Complex in Kampung Peta, Mersing, the exercise involved Zone 3 officers, fire station chiefs and selected drivers.

Activities included 4WD driving training to Kampung Peta, briefings on geography and disaster risks, and field studies in flood-prone areas and Orang Asli settlements.

“The exercise not only enhanced 4WD driving skills in disaster situations but also strengthened collaboration with external agencies to ensure comprehensive preparedness for potential floods during the northeast monsoon season,” the post said.

The 2025/2026 northeast monsoon is expected to occur from next month until March 2026, while the monsoon transition phase is expected to begin from late October to November this year.

-- BERNAMA