KUCHING: Sarawakian MPs are urged to engage with Putrajaya to establish a clear policy for the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the crucial role of CERT, which received training from the Malaysia Civil Defence Department (MCDD) Sarawak and Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UKPS).
CERT is the first to respond during emergencies and plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of communities.
“When disasters strike, CERT takes prompt action to move the community to a safe place until further assistance arrives. Sometimes, it can take hours for the organized response teams to arrive, which is why we want to expand CERT’s policy,” Uggah explained.
He added that the vast size of Sarawak compared to other areas makes the expansion of CERT even more necessary.
He said this during the handing over ceremony of the MCDD Sarawak four-wheel-drive ambulance and Sarawak’s Honorary and Associated Officers’ appointments at PUSPA Sarawak, Jalan Diplomatik yesterday (July 21).
He stressed that the policy would serve as a guide to expedite help for the people during emergencies.
“To address manpower concerns, we have the Civil Defence Force, whose presence covers the entire state. Therefore, I kindly request the relevant ministry to seriously consider the policy on CERT,” he appealed.
By expanding the CERT policy and enhancing its capacity, Sarawak aims to improve its emergency response capabilities and protect its communities more effectively.
