23 May 2023
News release by the Crisis Relief Squad of MCA (CRSM)
Workshop for motorboat, engine operation by the CRSM Elite Team and Kelantan Fire & Rescue Dept
The Crisis Relief Squad of MCA (CRSM) and the Kelantan Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) conducted a joint workshop on basic operations of motorboat, engine operations and wilderness survival. Hailing from Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang, 20 CRSM Elite Team members participated in this 2-day/1-night workshop at Pulau Ryu, Terengganu from May 20th to 21st, 2023.
During the opening ceremony, CRSM Kelantan Chief Chan Rui Yih stated that, “the main goal of the activity was to give CRSM members the opportunity to practise operating a steam boat and a shoulder-mounted engine so that they can quickly deploy it in the event of major floods.”
Elaborating further, Chan explained that, “when major floods struck Kelantan in the past, residents felt that the boats provided by government agencies were insufficient. CRSM could thus play the role as a backup to make up for this shortage. During floods, these boats can be used to deliver dry food and resources to the victims, and assist in the relocation of the victims.”
CRSM’s goal is to build a highly mobile disaster and emergency response team. This may be achieved through a series of trainings for team members. When disasters occur, it is hoped that CRSM volunteers would be able to provide effective assistance to victims within the shortest time, and respond to disasters in a more professional manner.
“As for the mission and duty of CRSM, volunteers are expected to arrive at the disaster site as early as possible, provide timely help and relief, gather information to be reported to the federal government, and then assist accordingly on the following course of action.”
During the training, Bomba sent senior firefighters to give expert advice on how to operate the motorboats. This course covers essential abilities like motorboat assembly and engine proficiency, with the goal of enhancing the team members' professionalism and emergency response skills.
While officiating the opening ceremony of the training, MCA Kelantan State Chairman Chua Hock Kuan said, “from assembling the motorboat to operating the motorboat with the engine, one needs to undergo continuous practice so that one will be able to provide assistance in a more professional manner during floods.”
The training provided the team members with an interactive and collaborative learning environment in addition to a strong emphasis on skills transfer. Through the training, teams develop a close bond through cooperation, which will facilitate working together in future disaster relief operations.
Chua Hock Kuan also pointed out that there are currently 156 CRSM Elite Team members nationwide. Such motorboat trainings were first carried out in Northern and Southern Malaysia last month, and this is the third time that this training is being conducted. After this, trainings are scheduled to be held in the south-central region and Klang Valley. The teams must be prepared at all times to be able to assist people in need.
Adding that, “due to the current high temperatures in 7 states, including Kelantan on the east coast, with a temperature range from 35 to 37 degrees Celsius, the first level of hot weather alert has already been issued,” Chua informed that, “in Kelantan, there have also been fatal cases of children succumbing to heatstroke.” Reminding that “these incidents serve as a reminder of the seriousness of heat stroke,” Chua stressed on “the need for adults and children to take precautions to safeguard themselves, particularly in high-risk groups like the children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.”
He also urged the public to remember the following precautions in order to avoid heatstroke: “First, make sure to drink enough water to keep the body adequately hydrated. Second, avoid being in direct sunlight for long periods of time, especially at noon. Wear hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect your skin, and choose breathable, loose-fitting clothing to help your body stay cool. Also, pay attention to any signs by your own body, including any fatigue or dizziness. If feeling unwell, find a cool place to rest and get medical attention.” 
-MCA online-
