GE15: Major flood still a concern despite more manpower to handle it - Hamzah

UPDATED 6.41PM | Home Minister Hamzah Zainudin today reiterates his concern about a major flood that might occur during the upcoming general election despite various security and enforcement agencies’ preparedness to handle the situation.

Nevertheless, Hamzah said the Home Ministry, via its Joint Enforcement Coordination Committee, is satisfied with the preparation and readiness of strategic assets and police manpower that can be mobilised to deal with major flood disasters at any time.

“A total of 21,018 police personnel and 4,367 Rela’s voluntary personnel are ready to be deployed for flood relief efforts. They have also conducted simulations in all 14 states,” said Hamzah at a press conference after attending a briefing on police’s preparedness for flood and polls.

"All state and district police chiefs have been instructed to make early preparations for the flood. They will lead the flood management operation centre in their respective areas in line with the directive issued by the National Security Council," he said.

"The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (APMM) will be entrusted to will fly in food supplies and essential items to flood-hit islands and also to evacuate victims," added Hamzah.

To a question, he said the biggest challenge that may be faced by these agencies is a massive flood, like the one that occurred in December last year.

"What we fear is a massive flood, like the one that hit us last year. Something unexpected may happen," he said.

However, he said there will be a contingency plan if a massive flood hits the country during the polls.

"Of course, there is a contingency plan, and the inspector-general of police will discuss this matter with the armed forces," Hamzah said.

However, Hamzah stopped short in answering if declaring a state of emergency or calling off an election when the situation turns worse are part of the contingency plan.

"These are the questions I am not supposed to answer," he said.

When pressed further about it, he simply said: "The contingency plan is for all of us to pray for no flood."

Hamzah, who is also Perikatan Nasional secretary-general, said he reiterated the coalition's stance that this is not the right time to hold a general election.

"As a party man, I have to toe the party line," he said, adding that this was the reason for PN ministers to pen a letter to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, expressing not to hold the election this year.

The massive flood that hit several states in Malaysia last December left 55 dead and caused RM6.1 billion in losses.

Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced the dissolution of Parliament on Monday to pave way for the next general election within 60 days, despite amid concerns that the election would be held during a torrential monsoon which may cause floods.

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