The Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) has allocated substantial funding to ensure the Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) remains fully prepared to handle emergencies nationwide.
Minister Nga Kor Ming said RM267 million has been approved this year to upgrade equipment used in search and rescue operations.
He added that under the 12th Malaysia Plan, a further RM1.3 billion has been allocated for JBPM to acquire critical assets, strengthening the department’s overall readiness for disasters.
Nga said the government wants JBPM to remain on full-time readiness as emergencies can occur without warning.
He made the remarks during a briefing on the Sungai Perak Phase 1 Integrated River Basin Development Project and related initiatives in Hilir Perak.
The minister was responding to questions on improving search and rescue operations, following the recent case involving climber Jaslinda Saludin, who was found safe near Kampung Lubuk Gaharu in Tapah.
He said the ministry would provide a written breakdown of the costs incurred during the rescue operation and stressed that the priority was ensuring the climber was found safe.
Nga also acknowledged that every rescue mission has weaknesses, adding that improvements will be made based on lessons learned, including issues related to communication during operations.
Jaslinda had been part of a 15-member climbing expedition along the Trans Spencer Chapman trail, which began on May 23 from Pos Gedung through several mountain routes before she was reported missing after last being seen on May 24.
