NADMA’s Preparedness Key to Supporting People When Disaster Strikes, Says Ahmad Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 1 – Disaster management in Malaysia remains challenging, but the National Disaster Management Agency’s (NADMA) unwavering commitment to preparedness is vital to supporting the public during crises, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

Paying tribute to the agency on its 11th anniversary on Thursday, October 1, 2026, Ahmad Zahid praised NADMA personnel for consistently coordinating relief efforts, mobilizing emergency responses, and protecting public safety.

Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as Chairman of the Central Disaster Management Committee, noted that NADMA has established a robust foundation for national disaster management over the past decade.

“Happy 11th anniversary to NADMA. I want to thank all its personnel for their commitment and dedication over the years. Alhamdulillah, the past 11 years have built a strong foundation for the agency,” he shared in a Facebook post on Thursday.

SMART Retains International INSARAG Heavy USAR Status

Ahmad Zahid also congratulated NADMA’s Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) for successfully retaining its status as an International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) Heavy Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Team.

The elite rescue team re-certified its international standing through the INSARAG External Reclassification (IER) MAS01 2026 assessment.

“This achievement shows that our team continues to maintain internationally recognised standards of capability and preparedness,” Ahmad Zahid added. “I hope the agency will continue to be strengthened as a key pillar of national preparedness, staying one step ahead in responding to any eventuality and remaining a source of support for the people when disaster strikes.”

–NMT