Flood Preparedness among Agencies in Segamat, Johor

Abstract

Within the southern region of Peninsular Malaysia, Johor has experienced the most severe flood disasters with almost 9,000 evacuees between the year 2012 to 2017, which the locals attributed to poor flood management and administration. Eight main responding agencies identified based on NSC Directive No. 20 were surveyed in Segamat, Johor, in order to assess current perception and practices, as well as ascertain aspects of flood management that need improvement. A self-administered questionnaire was used which focused on the agencies' flood response capabilities, and five key determinants towards effective disaster response namely collaboration, predisposition, information sharing, coordination among agencies, and preparedness. Results from the survey among 80 respondents found that responding agencies in Segamat have a positive perception of their planning and responding capabilities. Based on a checklist of preparedness measures, the majority of respondents were found to have a high level of flood preparedness, particularly for emergency coping and restoration works. However, while the findings showed that the agencies have high confidence in responding to flood individually, there are opportunities for improvements in their capabilities to work and respond cohesively with each other and with the local communities.