Malaysia to Explore Direct Disaster Notification Channel for Residents

Minister Fahmi Fadzil Tasks MCMC to Study Mobile Phone Alert System

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has been tasked with exploring a direct disaster notification channel for residents, bypassing the use of Short Message Service (SMS), said Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil. This move aims to provide a faster and more effective way of alerting residents in the event of a disaster.

Mobile Phone Alert System

Fahmi explained that the disaster notification system should function as a mobile phone alert, similar to systems used in countries like South Korea and Japan. In these countries, when a disaster occurs, mobile phones automatically receive an alert – not an SMS but a notification that appears directly on the phone. This application is very fast.

Benefits of Mobile Phone Alert System

Fahmi believes that implementing such a disaster notification system would help residents prepare for emergencies, particularly in high-risk areas, and prevent untoward incidents. He also emphasized that mobile phones should serve as a platform for receiving the latest alerts, especially in areas where water levels are rising.

Coordination with NADMA

Speaking at a press conference later, Fahmi said that the disaster notification system could be utilised in Malaysia by coordinating efforts with the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA). He added that MCMC is expected to complete its study on the matter within a month.

Komuniti Siaga 221 Programme

Fahmi also touched on the Komuniti Siaga 221 programme, which aims to provide training and emergency knowledge to residents in urban areas at risk of disasters and exposed to local security threats. He praised the programme, saying that it is an excellent platform for enhancing preparedness and awareness among local residents.

Success of Komuniti Siaga 221

Fahmi noted that after a series of disasters in 2021 and 2022 in Kampung Pasir Baru, the local community has made significant efforts in terms of planning and equipment. He added that the community is now much better prepared than before.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Malaysia is taking steps to improve its disaster notification system by exploring a direct mobile phone alert system. This move aims to provide a faster and more effective way of alerting residents in the event of a disaster, and could potentially save lives and prevent untoward incidents.

FAQs

Q: What is the purpose of the direct disaster notification channel for residents?
A: The purpose is to provide a faster and more effective way of alerting residents in the event of a disaster.

Q: How does the mobile phone alert system work?
A: The system sends a notification directly to residents’ mobile phones, bypassing the use of SMS.

Q: What are the benefits of the mobile phone alert system?
A: The system helps residents prepare for emergencies, particularly in high-risk areas, and prevents untoward incidents.

Q: Who is coordinating the disaster notification system?
A: The National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) is coordinating efforts with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).