PETALING JAYA: The Fire and Rescue Department is ready to face the north-east monsoon season, says Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican.

       “I started the year by getting a briefing and update on the readiness of the fire and rescue team at the Fire and Rescue Headquarters in Putrajaya.

       “I also received the latest real-time reports from state fire directors on the situation throughout the country, especially in the six states that are experiencing floods.

       “My WhatsApp group with them is never quiet with situation updates on the ground at all times.

       “It also makes it easier for instructions to be given and action to be taken immediately,” he said in a Facebook post on Sunday (Jan 2).

       Reezal Merican added that currently 7,527 firefighters and 438 assets have been mobilized in these six states.

       “We are on high alert especially on the west coast which is expected to experience a high tide phenomenon until January 5.

       “The fire and rescue team is in optimum condition with 4,878 operations already carried out during the northeast monsoon season, as of 8am on Sunday.

       “The presence of 'Wira Merah' (Red Heroes) in every location is a relief to the people.

       “I pray that the Wira Merah team will continue to be given the strength to serve the people, anywhere, at all times,” he said.