CBDRM platform to empower community in checking disaster risk - Redzuan

The Community-Based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM) programme has the potential to be a platform to empower communities in efforts to reduce disaster risks, said Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Special Functions) Datuk Seri Mohd Redzuan Md Yusof.

He said the approach was seen as practical because information like the provision of a 72-hour kit, grab bag and Disaster Imagination Games activities can help communities in facing potential hazards, especially by creating maps for evacuation to safer areas.

With this, Redzuan said dependence on government agencies and departments can be optimised and at the same time there would be greater awareness to take early action in the event of a disaster.

“Local communities play a crucial role in managing disasters because they are the nearest to the scene and have information on the people.

“This provides for easier access and speeds up rescue operations,” he said when closing the CBDRM Kundasang 2020 programme here yesterday.

The programme was held in remembrance of the Sabah earthquake in 2015, which triggered disasters such as landslides, floods and mudslides in Kundasang.

According to Redzuan, the concept of community-led disaster risk reduction activities should be expanded throughout the country.