Coming on board for disaster relief

EVERY year between October and February, the Malaysian Relief Agency (MRA) sets up its round-the-clock disaster relief war room.

This is part of MRA’s preparation for flood-related disasters.

MRA president Dr Mohd Daud Sulaiman, a heart specialist, said preparedness for any natural calamity was important and this included having the right equipment for search and rescue.

Understanding the needs of a flood rescue mission, the 12.12.12 Charity Project is aiming to supply at least 100 fully-equipped rescue boats.

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed by 12.12.12 Charity Project chairperson Datin Winnie Loo, ACTnow co-founder Melvin Lam and Dr Mohd Daud at Aspial Studio in Section 16, Petaling Jaya in Selangor.

Also present at the MOU were several MPs.

(Standing, from right) Lee, Zahiran, Tan, (seated from left) Lam, Loo, Dr Mohd after the signing of MOU. — AZLINA ABDULLAH/The Star

Dr Mohd Daud said, “We must be ready all the time. Last year, we channelled RM1.6mil in aid.

“During the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, we delivered close to RM18mil worth of aid.”

Meanwhile, Loo said the project was a symbol of hope in times of crisis.

She said paintings of national icons by local artists would be used to raise funds for the project via a roadshow.

The icons featured include Datuk Nicol David, Datuk Redzuawan Ismail (Chef Wan), Datuk Ramli Ibrahim, Dr Wong Siew Te and Nor Zila Aminuddin (Ella).

“All proceeds will go to MRA and donations will be tax- exempted,” said Loo.

Cheras MP Tan Kok Wai said massive floods had occurred in cities such as Hong Kong, yet most countries were still not taking climate change seriously.

“There were many conferences on climate change, and we are presented with disappointing reports.

“We need clean and renewable energy.

“Until the climate issues are addressed, we can anticipate more calamities,” he said.

Wangsa Maju MP Zahir Hassan said preparedness and mitigation were important in addressing disasters.

SME Association of Malaysia national deputy president Datin Dorph Peng Wen Yin, who was present, said contributions to the 12.12.12 Charity Project would help provide meaningful impact to the nation.

“This MOU is not just a document, it’s a pact of trust and dedication which will guide us towards a compassionate and resilient Malaysia where no one is left behind,” she added.

Petaling Jaya MP Lee Chean Chung said climate patterns were rapidly changing and this must be taken seriously.

He said he was appreciative of the project to secure 100 boats for flood rescue.

“Growing up on the east coast, I witnessed severe floods. Nowadays, floods are happening annually.

“I believe this collaboration will greatly aid those vulnerable to Mother Nature.

“With the boats, our community along with the Fire and Rescue Department and the police will be better prepared to save lives,” added Lee.