JELI: The Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Air Division is using drones to monitor and assess the level of risk of areas affected by floods.

Its director Nazili Mahmood said the use of robotic technology would complement the air monitoring activities conducted by the division.

He said a drone unit comprising six personnel who have been given special training, has been set up in each state.

"The use of the drones is a necessity, especially to monitor the flood-hit areas and facilitate rescue operations," he said after presenting flood aid to residents in Kampung Legeh, here, yesterday,

Meanwhile, Nazili said seven helicopters were ready to be deployed in flood-prone areas, including Sabah and Sarawak.

-- BERNAMA