PUTRAJAYA, April 9 -- The establishment of the National Disaster Management Council (MPBN) reflects the government's serious commitment to shifting from post-disaster reaction to prioritising preparedness, prevention and risk reduction, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said.

Ahmad Zahid said the country needs a structure for faster strategic decisions, smoother coordination and seamless on-the-ground action - bridging any federal-state gaps.

"We're not just reacting to disasters - we want the country prepared in advance, risks minimised, and damage to lives, property and the economy kept to a minimum."

The new setup will also strengthen the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) as lead body, enhancing its ...