PUTRAJAYA: The Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) simulation site in Pulau Meranti is being upgraded with search and rescue (SAR) training modules. Completion is scheduled for October.
National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) director-general Datuk Khairul Shahril Idrus said the upgraded site will include rescue modules for subway operations, cable cars, collapsed buildings, tilting buildings, and multiple collapsed buildings.
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The site will also have an abseiling tower for rappelling training, according to Khairul Shahril.
The Public Works Department (JKR) is carrying out the upgrading work under the 12th Malaysia Plan. The cost is around RM60mil, and it is currently 70% done, he added.
Currently, the site has basic simulations for operations in collapsed buildings.
“The upgraded site will not only improve the expertise of SMART members in disaster and emergency situations but also maintain their status as a world-class rescue team,” said Khairul Shahril.
The upgraded site will also ensure SMART’s recognition by the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (Insarag), a UN body that coordinates rescue networks in cross-border disaster situations.
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Khairul Shahril said the plan is to add more modules for rescue operations in other scenarios, such as plane crashes.
Once upgraded, the site could serve as a SAR training centre for Asean and other regions, he added.
Indonesia, Brunei, and Turkiye have expressed interest in SMART’s expertise and have applied for joint training.
Moreover, Nadma plans to reassess SMART’s strength and relevance to current developments and disaster situations. They also aim to equip the team with the latest technology and equipment.
Established in 1994, SMART consists of officers and members from the Malaysian Armed Forces, Royal Malaysia Police, and the Fire and Rescue Department. The current strength is about 150. – Bernama
Credit: The Star : News Feed
