KUALA LUMPUR, April 24 (Bernama) -- Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming disaster management in Malaysia, with the National Disaster Control Centre (NDCC) now using the technology to accelerate data analysis and improve emergency response nationwide.
National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) Deputy Director-General (Operations) Abdul Gapar Abu Bakar said AI-enabled data management allows the NDCC to process information from technical departments and response agencies, including the Malaysian Meteorological Department and the Malaysian Civil Defence Force, more quickly and comprehensively.
“This enables us to deploy assets faster and more accurately during disaster situations,” he told reporters after leading a guided tour of the Resilient Asia 2026 Expo today.
He said predictive AI is also being used by technical agencies such as MetMalaysia to detect early weather patterns and monsoon changes, with the information subsequently channelled to the control centre for assessment and the issuance of early warnings.
In addition to AI, drone technology is being deployed to identify affected areas more efficiently, enhancing situational awareness and response coordination.
Abdul Gapar said Malaysia’s adoption of advanced disaster management technologies has drawn international attention, with countries such as Russia, Brunei and Turkey looking to Malaysia as a model for global best practices in disaster management.
On the Resilient Asia 2026 Expo, he said the three-day event, which began today, aims to raise public awareness of disaster management across all aspects, prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery.
The opening day attracted delegations from several countries, including Russia, Timor-Leste and Qatar, as well as more than 700 school students.
A total of 50 exhibitors are participating, including 20 international exhibitors from countries such as China and Turkey, showcasing the latest innovations in disaster management technology.
Key attractions include an Augmented Reality Zone and an Immersive Zone to simulate real-life disaster scenarios, alongside rescue demonstrations by the Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART).
Under the theme, “AI for Future-Proofing Disaster Management Towards Stronger Communities,” the inaugural expo brings together international experts, technical agencies, emergency response units, technology leaders and industry players from across Asia to advance technology-driven transformation in disaster management.
-- BERNAMA
