Nadma's disaster preparedness critical to protecting Malaysians, says Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR — Managing disasters presents significant challenges, but the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) plays a vital role in ensuring Malaysia's resilience when calamities strike, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Zahid Hamidi.

Zahid's remarks came as the agency marked its 11th anniversary, underscoring the critical nature of disaster preparedness in a region prone to flooding, landslides, and other natural hazards.

The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that Nadma's operational readiness and capacity to coordinate response efforts across agencies and states are essential components of the country's disaster management framework. He noted that effective preparedness reduces vulnerability and enables faster recovery when emergencies occur.

Nadma, established in 2015, serves as the coordinating body for disaster management initiatives nationwide, working with federal and state authorities to develop contingency plans, conduct training exercises, and provide emergency response capabilities.

The agency's role has become increasingly significant as Malaysia faces mounting climate-related challenges, with officials stressing the need for continuous improvement in disaster risk reduction strategies and public awareness programmes across the country.