Indigenous communities urged to evacuate ahead of monsoon season

Indigenous communities living in isolated settlements across Kelantan and Terengganu are being urged to move to designated safe zones before the onset of the northeast monsoon season. Authorities have emphasized the urgency of the evacuation to prevent residents from being stranded in remote areas where access roads may become impassable during severe weather.

The Orang Asli population in these regions faces particular vulnerability due to their geographical isolation and limited infrastructure. Communities are typically scattered across hilly terrain with minimal road networks, making rescue and relief operations extremely difficult once monsoon conditions set in.

Disaster management officials have identified evacuation centres equipped with basic facilities to accommodate displaced residents. Those who evacuate early will have better access to emergency services, medical facilities, and supply lines, authorities said.

The northeast monsoon typically brings torrential rainfall to the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia from November through March. Previous monsoon seasons have resulted in widespread flooding, landslides, and loss of life in affected areas. Authorities continue to monitor weather patterns and urge residents to heed evacuation orders when issued.