Fatimah calls for community vigilance during dry spell

DALAT (March 30): Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah has urged residents to remain vigilant during the ongoing dry season, warning heightened fire risks and potential water shortages.

She noted that the Meteorological Department has forecast that the hot and dry weather will persist until June.

“Fires have already destroyed a house in Kampung Senau on Thursday,” she said during her speech at the Civil Defence Force (APM) Dalat Excellence Appreciation Ceremony held here yesterday.

“Parents should closely monitor their children, and smokers must avoid discarding cigarette butts carelessly to prevent fires,” she added.

Fatimah also revealed that the Social Welfare Department (JKM) had delivered drinking water to a longhouse in Ulu Baoh on Saturday, with similar assistance to continue if dry spell persists.

“Water reserves near Kampung Sungai Kut are running low, and rivers are becoming shallower.

“If rain does not fall by June, we may face drought conditions,” she warned.

The Dalat assemblywoman highlighted that agencies such as APM are among the first responders during emergencies and play a key role in promoting fire safety awareness among villagers and schoolchildren.

She commended APM personnel for their dedication and praised the organisation’s 74th anniversary theme “APM Nadi Kesiapsiagaan Masa Depan”, as a reflection of their commitment, sacrifice, and the spirit of Malaysia Madani through volunteerism and swift action.

“Every task we carry out is not just a duty, but a trust to the people and the nation,” she said.