SEREMBAN: Negri Sembilan is preparing to face the monsoon season, expected next month, following an earlier-than-anticipated Northeast Monsoon (MTL) transition phase, says Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun.

The Mentri Besar announced that the State Disaster Management Committee, led by State Secretary Datuk Mohd Zafir Ibrahim, has convened with other agencies to gather information and prepare for potential natural disasters.

"These agencies need to be collaboratively mobilised, sharing information to facilitate all parties. We have also requested for the operations room to be activated immediately when needed," Aminuddin informed reporters after a post-state executive council meeting on Wednesday (Oct 9).

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi previously urged the public to remain alert and ready for potential flooding, as the MTL is expected earlier, by the fourth week of this month, due to weather changes.

Ahmad Zahid, who also chairs the National Disaster Management Committee, noted that the Irrigation and Drainage Department has identified areas at risk of flash floods, emphasising the need for coordinated efforts through state and district disaster committees.

Meanwhile, Aminuddin expressed hopes for increased funding for infrastructure development in Negri Sembilan under Budget 2025.

He highlighted the focus on providing better infrastructure to the residents, expediting development as planned by the state and federal governments.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is also the Minister of Finance, will present Budget 2025 in the Dewan Rakyat on 18 October. – Bernama

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/10/09/floods-negri-on-standby-for-early-monsoon-season