8TH INFANTRY BRIGADE ON STANDBY TO ASSIST WITH GUA MUSANG LANDSLIDE

KOTA BHARU, Dec 3 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM), through the 8th Infantry Brigade, is prepared to assist in operations following the landslide on the Gua Musang-Lojing Road.

Its commander, Brigadier Gen Mohamad Nizam Abdul Manap said they have not yet received official orders from higher authorities to begin operations at the site.

"We have received reports from the state disaster management team. However, our involvement will only be activated upon approval from higher authorities," he said after a certificate presentation ceremony here today.

He added that while the situation at the landslide site is under control, the Department of Public Works (JKR) will handle the repair work. The ATM is ready to assist if required.

Earlier, Gua Musang JKR announced the complete closure of the Gua Musang-Lojing FT185 Road, Section 107.6, near Pos Blau, due to the landslide. Road users are advised to take alternative routes.

Meanwhile, on preparations for the potential second wave of floods in Kelantan and Terengganu, Mohamad Nizam confirmed that more than 1,000 personnel are on standby, with additional assets such as boats provided by the 2nd Division Headquarters to support current needs.

"Our personnel are on alert in the areas assigned to handle flooding in the event of a second wave. During the first wave of floods, 23 of our members were affected, particularly in the Tumpat, Pasir Mas, and Bachok districts in Kelantan, as well as Kuala Nerus in Terengganu," he added.

-- BERNAMA