SHAH ALAM: A total of 63 military officers and 856 rank-and-file personnel have been deployed for flood operations in affected states, says Tan Sri Jeneral Affendi Buang (pic).

       The Armed Forces chief said for Pahang, the mobilisation of troops is focused on flooded areas in Karak, Mentakab, Maran, Kuantan, Raub, Kuala Lipis, Jerantut, Pekan, Bera, Temerloh and Bentong.

       "We deployed various assets in Pahang including boats as well as three-tonne and seven-tonne trucks that can wade through flood waters," he told a press conference at the Taman Sri Muda flood operation centre on Saturday (Dec 25).

       He added that the military has 500 personnel deployed to assist with post-flood clean-up at Taman Sri Muda.

       "We are focusing on cleaning up public facilities such as houses of worship and schools, which have been badly affected by the floods. We are coordinating with the local authority in this matter," said Jen Affendi.

       Jen Affendi also said that Armed Forces personnel are at work in Negri Sembilan and will be building a temporary bridge at Kampung Bemban, Simpang Durian in Jelebu once slope strengthening efforts have been concluded.

       "As mentioned previously, we also have one company - five officers and 97 personnel - on standby for flood operation in each state. Their numbers will be increased if the need arises," he said.

       He stressed that coordination among all agencies involved in flood operations is vital.

       "Saving the lives of the victims is always the priority," he said.