King calls for preparation to face floods

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah has issued a reminder for preparations to be made ahead of the annual monsoon season.

The monarch said this in his speech at the national level Maulidur Rasul celebration held at the World Trade Centre this morning, attended by Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Idris Ahmad. 

“Recently, the Malaysian Meteorological Department has predicted that the nation will face continuous heavy rain and risk of large-scale flooding beginning mid-November.

“I would like to remind all my subjects to make necessary preparations to face the changing weather phenomenon that will happen soon,” said Sultan Abdullah who was accompanied by Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah.

“I also request all related agencies to make thorough and comprehensive preparations for the wellbeing of the people.  

“The preparations are not only from the aspect of reducing the impact of floodings, but to draft a mechanism so that help can be channelled to flood victims in a planned, swift, and effective manner,” he said. 

On Thursday, the king was briefed on the year-end weather and flood situation at the National Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre amid mounting speculations that Parliament will be dissolved to pave way for the 15th general election.

‘Prophet prioritises public interests’

Meanwhile, in line with the theme of this year’s Maulidur Rasul celebration, Sultan Abdullah also urged all parties to unite and focus on efforts that benefit the ummah.

Maulidur Rasul is marked in honour of the birth of Prophet Muhammad SAW and Sultan Abdullah reminded leaders to not stray far from his guidance and examples left behind. 

“The Prophet prioritises public interests above individual interests.

“The Prophet does not fight for a narrow agenda, but on the other hand, was fair in conduct to build a vision for the welfare of all,” said Sultan Abdullah.

The king said other lessons that leaders can emulate include setting the right intention and being honest in carrying out their responsibilities.

The day’s celebration also honours individuals selected for their contributions in their fields, with the main Maulidur Rasul Icon award presented to corporate figure Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir.

TV personality Mizz Nina, or her real name Syazrina Azman, meanwhile, was named this year's Humanitarian Activist Icon for her work leading aid missions to Turkiye, Syria, Palestine, and Lebanon, among others.

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