Government reaffirms commitment to enhance disaster-resilient education through the National Disaster Risk Reduction Policy 2030, which aligns with the United Nations’ Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction
DEPUTY Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi delivered the message at a Ministerial Roundtable themed “Safe Schools” during the Eighth Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction in Geneva on Thursday.
“This policy focuses on comprehensive risk reduction across all sectors, including the safety and continuity of education,” he said in a statement issued after the event.
Among the key initiatives highlighted was the Disaster Risk Reduction Education Module, developed by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with UNICEF Malaysia and the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA).
The module is expected to benefit nearly 7,800 primary schools across the country and is designed to promote experiential learning, practical training and active student engagement.
The initiative, Zahid said, is also in line with the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response framework.
“To ensure comprehensive implementation, Malaysia is also exploring strategic collaborations with NGOs, private companies and government-linked companies,” he said.
Zahid also noted that NADMA’s Community-Based Disaster Risk Management programme reached nearly 44,000 Malaysians in the past year, including more than 12,000 youths.
In addition, Malaysia has allocated RM135 million to construct Permanent Relief Centres in schools located in high-risk areas. These centres will serve as emergency shelters during disasters and function as community learning hubs under normal conditions.
“Malaysia has also expressed its readiness to share expertise and foster cross-border collaboration in strengthening global school safety,” Zahid said.
“We believe that investing in resilience today is the best protection for our children’s future.” - June 6, 2025