MELAKA JBPM IDENTIFIES 106 FLOOD-PRONE HOTSPOTS AHEAD OF MTL

MELAKA, Nov 11 (Bernama) -- The Melaka Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has identified 106 flood-prone “hotspot” locations across the state that could be affected by heavy rain during the Northeast Monsoon (MTL), expected to begin this Thursday.

Its director, Mohd Zaidi Ma’at, said the locations, identified in collaboration with the Melaka Department of Irrigation and Drainage (JPS), comprise 53 sites in Melaka Tengah, 27 in Alor Gajah and 26 in Jasin.

“Most of these flood-prone areas are those that frequently experience flooding during the MTL. Regular monitoring will be carried out by JPS, and early warnings or announcements will be issued to the public or residents to ensure they can evacuate safely.

“JBPM Melaka is fully prepared for the MTL in all aspects, including assets, logistics, personnel and training. Our firefighters will be on the ground to help ensure effective flood response,” he told reporters here today after the Melaka JBPM November assembly and launch of the MTL Preparedness Programme.

Mohd Zaidi said about 500 firefighters and officers from the rescue, operations, special and support units were on standby and ready to be mobilised at any time during the MTL period.

He said the figure does not include volunteer and community fire brigades established across the state to provide early response in the event of disasters in their respective areas.

In addition, Melaka JBPM has also set up a Rapid Deployment Team to enhance response efforts to floods and other disasters during the MTL, including in neighbouring states such as Johor.

“The team comprises 15 members from three units who are on 24-hour standby, equipped with assets and logistics such as lorries, aluminium boats, life jackets and utility vehicles at the Ayer Keroh Fire and Rescue Station.

“If assistance is needed in neighbouring states, the Rapid Deployment Team must arrive at the flood or disaster site within three hours. Every year, we have a team ready to be deployed to neighbouring states during the MTL,” he said.

Yesterday, the Malaysian Meteorological Department announced that the 2025/2026 Northeast Monsoon is expected to begin this Thursday and continue until March next year, with five to seven episodes of continuous heavy rain forecast.

-- BERNAMA