Communications minister Fahmi Fadzil says the government is exploring introducing smartphone-based alerts for emergencies. This is part of its plans to improve Malaysia’s flood warning system in preparation for the upcoming Northeast Monsoon, complementing the existing siren system as well as ensuring better communication during potential disaster situations.
Fahmi explained that some countries utilise emergency warning systems not reliant on short message services (SMS). Instead, these operate via smartphone shortcuts, which instantly alert users of disasters. Such a system could enhance the speed and effectiveness of disaster warnings in Malaysia, he added.
“This is to notify the people, especially in a certain area, (which) apart from the flood siren, warnings could be notified by phone, as well as the latest information,” he told reporters after the ministry’s Monthly Assembly that was held earlier today. “We will look into this facility.”
To explore this option, the comms minister intends to engage with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to determine how telecommunications companies can collaborate with the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) and the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma). The goal is to bolster the country’s capacity to issue warnings more effectively.
It’s very likely that Fahmi is referencing the wireless emergency alert systems that are utilised by countries such as the United States, South Korea, Japan, the Philippines, and the United Arab Emirates. These rely on cell broadcasting to transmit critical notifications to smartphones within a particular region, regardless of carrier or operating platform, alerting citizens of harsh weather conditions, natural disasters and other emergencies.
(Source: Bernama)
