KAPIT: State Assemblyman for Bukit Goram, Jefferson Jamit Unyat officiated the closing ceremony of the ‘Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Training and Implementation Programme’ on Wednesday. The three-day training programme, held from 29 to 31 October at the State Office Complex at Jalan Bleteh here, was attended by some 200 grass root leaders and community leaders from 73 longhouses and villages to further enhance their skill on emergency response.
Addressing the participants at the function, Jamit thanked the organisers, comprised of the State Security and Enforcement Unit, Chief Minister’s Office, Petronas, Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Civil Defence Force (APM), State Welfare Department, State Health Department, State Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba), Sarawak Energy, Kapit Resident and District Offices for organising such an important course at his constituency.
He had high hope and expectations that the participants have acquired the basic knowledge and skills on providing immediate response during emergency situations such as fire, flash flood, landslide, and road accidents. “I wanted this organised for the people in my constituency because is very useful respond immediately on the spot while waiting for the paramedics to arrive when there is a tragedy or accident.
“We don’t know when tragedies or accidents will occur, especially when Kapit is well-known for its many rivers and hilly terrains. Thus, it is my hope that all the participants remain active by building up a volunteer team to handle any disaster to complement government efforts,” said Jamit. He further explained that CERT awareness programmes empower the community to be prepared for emergencies and at the same time, promote the spirit of volunteerism among community members.
“With the skills and knowledge from these programmes, it is hoped that the community will be able to help themselves, their families, and neighbours during emergencies.
Each member in our community ought to play an active role during emergencies,” explained Jamit. He then called upon the participants – upon reaching their respective homes – to set up their own CERT teams as he hoped that they will share what they’ve learned.
“It is important to nurture the spirit of volunteerism and willingness to work together at the grassroots level. Put into practice what you have acquired”, said Jamit. Jamit also urged the participants to always be ready as anything can happen at any time and at any place. “We must always be ready to face anything so that we are not caught in a panic when an emergency situation arises,” said Jamit.
