Malaysian MP calls for disaster resilience training in schools

Mumtaz Md Nawi, the Member of Parliament for Tumpat, has advocated for incorporating disaster resilience and emergency response training into school curricula across Malaysia.

Speaking on the importance of practical preparedness, Mumtaz stressed that students should acquire hands-on skills to effectively respond to disasters and emergency situations. The emphasis on practical knowledge reflects recognition that theoretical understanding alone is insufficient when communities face natural disasters or other crises.

The proposal aligns with regional and international efforts to build disaster-resilient societies, particularly given Southeast Asia's vulnerability to typhoons, floods, and earthquakes. Educational institutions are increasingly viewed as key platforms for instilling emergency preparedness habits in younger generations.

Implementing such training programmes would enable students to develop critical competencies including first aid, evacuation procedures, and crisis communication. Advocates argue that early exposure to these skills can help reduce casualties and improve community response times during actual emergencies.

The call comes as Malaysian authorities continue to strengthen disaster management frameworks and public awareness initiatives nationwide.