Floods: KPKM Launches Disaster Operations To Aid Affected Farmers, Fishermen

PUTRAJAYA, Nov 27 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) has activated its Disaster Operations Room and mobilised efforts at all levels to assist farmers, planters, livestock owners, and fishermen affected by floods in several states, including Kelantan, Perlis, Perak, Kedah, Terengganu, and Selangor.

In a statement today, the ministry said the activation follows forecasts from the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), which predicted the arrival of the Northeast Monsoon (MTL) from Nov 13 through to March next year, with heavy rainfall expected in several states, potentially leading to floods.

“The KPKM Disaster Operations Room at the state and district levels is continuously monitoring the weather, issuing early warnings to the target groups, and implementing mitigation plans to minimise losses in the agri-food sector during the disaster period," the statement said.

KPKM also noted that the Ministry's Disaster Management Committee, chaired by Secretary-General Datuk Seri Isham Ishak and attended by the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), has agreed that KPKM will fully cooperate with NADMA to distribute flood relief kits through the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) and mobilise flood relief resources via the Department of Agriculture.

The collaboration will also involve the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM) and the Veterinary Services Department.

"KPKM remains on standby and is ready to deploy assets to assist with rescue operations for flood victims, subject to approval from NADMA," the statement added.

Additionally, KPKM has prepared post-disaster assistance for those affected through the Padi Crop Disaster Fund for rice cultivation and the Agricultural Disaster Fund for agri-food activities, aimed at providing immediate help to farmers, livestock owners, and fishermen in need.

Members of the public can contact the KPKM Disaster Operations Room at 03-88701663/1664/1491 or their State Disaster Operations Rooms for further information.

-- BERNAMA