PUCHONG, Oct 30 – The National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) has advised the public against panic buying or excessively hoarding food ahead of the 2026/2027 Northeast Monsoon (MTL) season.
NADMA Director-General Datuk Meor Ismail Meor Akim warned that unverified social media posts and sensationalized messages could artificially trigger supply shortages.
Speaking after a media engagement session on government MTL preparedness in Puchong on Friday, October 30, 2026, Meor Ismail urged households to purchase goods solely based on actual necessity.
“Sometimes, panic buying creates another problem, not a Northeast Monsoon disaster, but a shortage of goods instead. Just buy according to your needs,” Meor Ismail stated, cautioning influencers against creating panic-inducing online content for engagement.
He advised households in flood-prone zones to take basic precautions, including elevating essential legal documents and valuables to prevent flood damage.
Families caring for elderly members, persons with disabilities (PwD), and pregnant women are urged to arrange early evacuation plans ahead of rising waters.
Meor Ismail reassured the public that temporary relief centres (PPS) are fully prepared with adequate supplies to accommodate displaced victims.
He urged citizens to monitor weather updates exclusively through verified official channels such as MetMalaysia and NADMA, and to evacuate immediately when instructed by enforcement authorities.
Monsoon Preparedness, Evacuation Guidelines, and Public Safety Measures
Key precautionary guidelines and disaster management measures issued by NADMA include:
- Stockpiling Guidance: Public urged to avoid panic buying and purchase food solely according to household needs.
- Disinformation Warning: Social media users and influencers warned against spreading sensationalized posts, with law enforcement monitoring panic-inducing content.
- Vulnerable Household Planning: Early evacuation planning required for families with elderly members, persons with disabilities (PwD), and pregnant women.
- Precautionary Steps: Safeguarding essential documents and belongings in elevated areas, following official weather bulletins, and adhering strictly to relief centre evacuation orders.
–NMT
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