Disaster Response (Floods, Landslides, Earthquakes)

Emergency response, evacuation centers, and disaster preparedness

What is a disaster?

A disaster is something dangerous that happens suddenly and affects many people at once. In Malaysia, the most common disasters are floods, landslides, and sometimes earthquakes.

What should you do if a disaster happens?

Listen to your parents or guardians.
Go to a safe place away from water, mud, or damaged buildings.
Do not go near flooded roads or rivers.
Call 999 if someone is in danger.

How do you prepare before a disaster?

Keep a small bag ready with important things: IC, medicine, water, a torch, and extra clothes.
Know the address of your nearest relief centre (Pusat Pemindahan).
Save emergency numbers in your phone.

Important numbers:

Emergency: 999
Civil Defence: 991
NADMA: 03-8870 0150

Types of disasters in Malaysia:

🌊 Floods - Most common, especially during monsoon season
🏔️ Landslides - In hilly areas during heavy rain
🌍 Earthquakes - Mostly in Sabah and Sarawak

Overview

Malaysia is highly vulnerable to hydro-meteorological disasters, particularly floods and landslides during the two monsoon seasons (Northeast Monsoon from November to March, Southwest Monsoon from May to September). Earthquakes affect primarily Sabah and Sarawak due to proximity to the Pacific Ring of Fire.

The National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) under the Prime Minister's Department coordinates all national-level disaster response, working alongside state-level Majlis Keselamatan Negara (MKN) committees, JKM, JPAM, BOMBA, PDRM, and the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM).

Types of Disasters Covered

Disaster	Highest Risk Areas	Season
Monsoon floods	Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, Johor, Sabah	Nov to March
Flash floods	All urban areas, KL, Penang, JB	Year-round
Landslides	Cameron Highlands, Genting, Ampang, Sabah	During heavy rain
Earthquakes	Sabah (Ranau fault line), Sarawak	Year-round

Before a Disaster: Preparation

Emergency Go-Bag Checklist:

✅ IC/passport copies (in waterproof bag)
✅ Essential medications (7-day supply)
✅ Bottled water and non-perishable food
✅ Torch light with extra batteries
✅ First aid kit
✅ Mobile phone and power bank
✅ Cash in small denominations
✅ Change of clothes
✅ Important documents (land title, insurance policies)

During a Disaster

Flood Safety:

Move to higher ground immediately
Do NOT walk or drive through floodwater (6 inches can knock you down)
Turn off electricity and gas if time permits
Follow evacuation orders from authorities

Landslide Safety:

Move away from the path of the landslide
If escape is not possible, curl into a tight ball and protect your head
Watch for signs: cracking sounds, tilting trees, new cracks in ground

Earthquake Safety:

Drop, Cover, and Hold On
Stay away from windows, mirrors, and heavy furniture
If outdoors, move away from buildings and power lines
Do NOT use elevators

After a Disaster

Wait for official "all clear" before returning home
Check for injuries and provide first aid
Document damage with photos for insurance claims
Apply for Bantuan Bencana through JKM if eligible
Boil water before drinking until authorities confirm safety

Relief Centers (Pusat Pemindahan)

During major disasters, the government opens temporary relief centers in schools, community halls, and mosques. These provide:

Temporary shelter
Food and water
Basic medical care
Clothing and blankets

Check with your local district office (Pejabat Daerah) for the nearest relief center location.

Applying for Disaster Aid (Bantuan Bencana)

Visit the nearest JKM office or relief center
Bring IC, proof of residence, and damage photos
Fill out the Bantuan Bencana application form
JKM will assess the damage and verify eligibility
Approved aid is disbursed within 14-30 days

Important Numbers

999 - General emergency
991 - Civil Defence (JPAM)
NADMA: 03-8870 0150
JKM Helpline: 1-800-88-6600
MySejahtera App - Real-time disaster alerts

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my area is flood-prone?

Check with your local district office (Pejabat Daerah) or visit the JPS (Jabatan Pengairan dan Saliran) website for flood risk maps. Areas near rivers, low-lying areas, and places with poor drainage are typically at higher risk.

What should I do if I'm driving and encounter floodwater?

Turn around immediately and find an alternate route. Never drive through floodwater - 30cm (1 foot) of water can float most vehicles, and 60cm (2 feet) can sweep away SUVs. If your car stalls, abandon it and move to higher ground.

Is disaster relief aid automatic or do I need to apply?

You need to apply. Visit the nearest JKM office or relief center with your IC, proof of residence, and photos of damage. The aid amount varies based on the severity of damage and family size.

How can I volunteer to help during disasters?

Contact organizations like Malaysian Red Crescent, St. John Ambulance, or Mercy Malaysia. They often recruit volunteers for disaster relief operations. You can also coordinate through your local district office.

Last updated: March 2026

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information only. Always verify with official sources for the most current information.