SHAH ALAM: The National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) has dismissed allegations that there was a lack of coordination for relief operations when floods hit Selangor on Saturday (Dec 18).

       Nadma director-general Datuk Dr Aminuddin Hassim said a meeting was held in September outlining the role of each agency should a disaster occur.

       “Disaster management consisted of three levels – district, state and national.

       “The role of each agency was outlined fully so there was no issue of lack of coordination among the agencies,” he told a press conference at the flood operation centre in Sri Muda on Tuesday (Dec 21).

       At the state level, the Meteorological Department provides information on the weather while the Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) will inform on water levels and flow, he added.

       “The state secretary will know assets to be mobilised in case of disaster,” he said.

       If any difficulties occur, Nadma will assist the coordination of disaster relief efforts, he added.

       “We are monitoring the situation from time to time.

       “On top of that, funds are being distributed at district level for frontliners in terms of logistics and necessities,” he said.

       Dr Aminuddin said for states in the East Coast, disaster simulations and training have been conducted for the past two years.

       “We provide training even up to district officer level,” he said.

       Dr Aminuddin also denied that there was rift between Nadma and the Army.

       “I’ve talked to the Army chief and he assured me rumours of a rift between the two agencies did not come from him or his men.

       “Our relations remain good. The rumours are nothing more than lies,” he said.

       Dr Aminuddin said Nadma had never prevented the Army from conducting flood relief efforts.