KUANTAN: The Pahang Civil Defence Force (APM), serving as the state Disaster Management Committee Secretariat, is set to take on a pivotal role in coordinating the flood aid collection centre. Col (PA) Che Adam A Rahman, the director of Pahang APM, emphasized the importance of ensuring that aid is distributed based on the needs of the affected individuals and is fairly allocated.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Col Che Adam A Rahman highlighted the APM’s involvement not only in rescue operations but also in the management of the flood aid collection centre. The APM will oversee non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that come forward to offer aid, aiming to avoid overlap and ensure efficient use of resources. This strategic coordination was discussed during Col Che Adam’s appearance on Pahang FM’s Temu Bual Ekslusif programme concerning the state Disaster Management Committee’s flood preparedness.
Che Adam stressed that the department is keeping a close watch on the weather developments in Pahang, especial
ly as neighboring states such as Terengganu and Kelantan are already facing severe flooding. This vigilant monitoring allows for effective coordination among rescue agencies, enabling prompt assistance to the public during disaster situations.
He elaborated on the phases of disaster management coordination, which include activities before, during, and after the disaster, as well as mitigation or recovery efforts. Currently, the focus is on monitoring, but once a disaster occurs, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the Fire and Rescue Department, along with the support of APM and the military, constitute the primary response teams responsible for rescue operations.
Additionally, Che Adam mentioned that the APM is open to rescue assistance from members of the public who own boats. However, he emphasized the necessity for these individuals to report their activities to the authorities to ensure all movements are properly accounted for.