SIBU, April 28: The Federal government has been urged to pay more attention to the Malaysia Civil Defence Force (APM) in Sabah and Sarawak.
Sarawak APM director Abdul Wahab Rahim said this was because they required more facilities and personnel.
He revealed that the force is eager to recruit more volunteers in about 100 hotspot areas.
“We will need between 10 to 15 people in each of the hotspot areas such as in Sungai Asap and Long Bedian, which are affected by natural disasters such as floods and fires,” he said after presenting certificates of promotion to 46 APM members and 11 officers today.
“Our priority now is to recruit volunteers in these hotspot areas. We will train and equip them with the basic facilities. This might involve substantial costs, but it is necessary in the long run,” he stressed.
Wahab reasoned that with volunteers in these areas, APM could provide immediate aid before other agencies such as Bomba arrive to conduct operations.
Meanwhile, two local individuals each donated a 150cc motorcycle to Sibu APM.
“Their contribution is much appreciated. We have been using four-wheel drive vehicles in our work but with the two motorcycles, we will be able to upgrade our services in times of emergency,” he said.
Also present at the event was Sibu APM chief Wan Mohd Jabir. — DayakDaily
