PENANG is set to have its own Disaster Humanitarian Logistics Centre by 2025, providing a vital storage hub for welfare aid and donations received by the state government.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow highlighted the development progress of the logistics centre in his winding-up speech during the Penang Legislative Assembly today.
“The establishment of a Disaster Humanitarian Logistic Centre in Bukit D.O., central Seberang Perai, is projected to cost approximately RM6.5 million. This initiative is scheduled for a three-year timeline, commencing this year (2023) and concluding in 2025.
“The significance of this Logistics Centre arises from the current absence of a dedicated facility in Penang for the storage of essential supplies and donated items. Presently, the government relies solely on the Disaster Storage Depot in Bedong, Kedah, overseen by the Social Welfare Department (JKM).
“The Logistics Centre will also fall under the supervision of JKM. Furthermore, the Disaster Management Unit (UPB) has appointed a Disaster Focal Person to serve as the liaison between departments, agencies, and the state government for swift notifications and efficient management.
“The UPB plays a crucial role in ensuring systematic coordination among the appointed Focal Persons, preventing the confusion of information.
“Successful Disaster Management Workshops have already been conducted with Focal Persons, ensuring their exposure to the specific duties of each department and agency during disasters,” he said.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud