KUALA LUMPUR – The National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) will channel its RM260 million allocation under Budget 2027 toward constructing more Permanent Disaster Relief Centres (PPKBs) and acquiring essential preparedness equipment, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced today.
Speaking at a press conference following the launch of National Preparedness Month 2026 at the Ipoh Convention Centre, Ahmad Zahid emphasized that the funding boost would strengthen frontline operational readiness, particularly during severe flood crises.
“We want to establish two permanent disaster relief centres in each state. Insya-Allah, with the additional allocation next year, we will add more according to requirements,” said Ahmad Zahid, who chairs the National Disaster Management Committee.
He noted that the target of two PPKBs per state will focus strategically on high-risk hotspot areas prone to recurrent flooding and mass evacuations.
The initiative expands on ongoing efforts outlined on July 6 by Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong, who informed the Dewan Rakyat that 15 PPKBs across nine states were scheduled to open in stages beginning this year. Of those initial 15, facilities in Johor and Pahang are complete, nine remain under construction, and four are in procurement and planning phases.
Beyond physical infrastructure, Ahmad Zahid confirmed that the budget will fund critical rescue assets—including boats and high-capacity water pumps—for responding agencies.
Direct financial assistance for disaster victims is also receiving a major boost. Ahmad Zahid announced that the maximum home repair grant for affected families has doubled from RM5,000 to RM10,000.
Furthermore, disbursement protocols have been streamlined to ensure faster financial relief.
“In addition, aid management has also been improved, with Bantuan Wang Ihsan being distributed to victims while they are at Temporary Evacuation Centres, before they return to their respective homes, to expedite assistance to affected families,” he said. – October 12, 2026