NADMA urges early evacuation ahead of Northeast Monsoon

Datuk Meor Ismail Meor Akim, Director General of the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), has advised residents in flood-prone areas to evacuate early upon receiving warnings. He specifically emphasized that families with elderly members, children, persons with disabilities, and pregnant women should move before conditions deteriorate to ensure easier evacuation and the ability to use personal vehicles.

While meteorological forecasts suggest the upcoming Northeast Monsoon (MTL) from late October 2026 to March 2027 may not be as severe as the 2021 floods, NADMA is maintaining standard preparedness levels. Meor Ismail expressed particular concern for areas that rarely experience flooding, noting that these regions often lack the necessary disaster preparedness compared to frequently flooded areas.

Authorities have also advised the public to avoid panic buying of food and beverages, suggesting that citizens purchase only what is necessary. To prevent confusion, the public is urged to seek information only from official sources, specifically the National Disaster Control Centre (NDCC) and State Disaster Control Centres (SDCC).