Penang gov't sets up disaster management unit

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the decision to set up the new unit was made at the state executive council meeting yesterday, and the unit would be overseen by the State Secretary.

"We feel that this disaster management unit is very much needed now to mobilise efforts and cooperation among all parties, following the flood situation that has hit several states in recent weeks.

"The state government has also instructed the relevant agencies to strengthen the disaster action plan in preparation to deal with any possible incidents of natural disasters, including a climate crisis," he said while addressing the swearing-in ceremony of Penang Island City Council (MBPP) council members here today.

Also present were state Housing, Local Government and Town Planning Committee chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo, and Penang Island Mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang.

Elaborating further, Chow said under the new unit, all manpower including from the government to the private sector, non-governmental organisations, local communities, communities and individuals could be mobilised together to serve as a cohesive team to address the global climate crisis.

He said the disaster management unit would discuss issues related to planning, preparedness, and recovery in the face of disasters.

"We (the Penang government) want to put emphasis on the disaster management unit following a string of extraordinary natural disaster incidents, especially floods that hit several states recently.

"Both the local authorities in Penang, namely MBPP and Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) will be important members of the said unit," he said.