Preparedness for climate disasters is reinforced

KUCHING, Sept. 18: Climate change preparedness needs to be stepped up as the threat grows more cross-border.

Deputy Prime Minister of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian said phenomena such as cross-border dust and drought require serious attention in efforts to strengthen disaster management.

According to him, changes in weather patterns and increased risks from climate change also require more comprehensive cooperation between agencies and countries.

"As we all know, disasters today do not know borders. This is so true. Among the events related to climate change are cross-border rains.

"It's not just cross-border dust, it's a common occurrence right now. However, many people do not realize that drought is also one of the effects related to climate change", he said while addressing the 9th International Research Conference of World Society of Disaster Nursing in Kuching on Friday.

Dr Sim adds that drought is among the phenomena which are still under-recognized by some communities although its effects can have major implications for various sectors.

In this regard, he stressed the importance of strengthening disaster preparedness taking into account changes in weather patterns and increased risks from climate change.

"Disaster management approaches need to continue to be strengthened through the sharing of expertise, technology and cooperation between agencies and countries, especially in dealing with threats unbound by geographical boundaries", he said.