PUTRAJAYA — The National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) has emphasized the need for continued investment in the Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) to keep pace with advancing search and rescue technologies. Datuk Meor Ismail Meor Akim, Nadma director-general, expressed hope that a budget allocation request submitted for Budget 2027 will secure funding to upgrade the team’s capabilities.

Speaking yesterday after the closing ceremony celebrating SMART’s retention of its Heavy Urban Search and Rescue (Heavy USAR) classification by the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (Insarag), Meor Ismail highlighted that budget requests for SMART’s equipment and capabilities are made annually through the government’s budget screening process. He expressed optimism that the upcoming Budget 2027, set to be tabled in Parliament on October 9, will approve the necessary funds.

“The technology and equipment used in search and rescue (SAR) operations are constantly evolving,” Meor Ismail said, citing examples such as drones and cutting tools, which require frequent updates to maintain operational effectiveness. “SMART is a special team, unique in the country, so its equipment has to be the best,” he added.

Maintaining membership standards, individual expertise, and up-to-date equipment is vital, Meor Ismail noted, to ensure the team continues to meet international standards and retain its recognition from Insarag.

Earlier in his speech, Meor Ismail underscored Malaysia’s ongoing commitment to enhancing urban search and rescue capabilities not only to safeguard its own population but also to support regional and international disaster response efforts. He stressed the importance of continuous improvements in equipment, training, and inter-agency coordination.

“Reclassification is not the end. It is a new commitment to humanity,” Meor Ismail said. “Malaysia will continue to invest in our urban search and rescue capabilities. We will improve equipment, training, and cooperation among agencies.”

The Nadma chief also affirmed Malaysia’s dedication to strengthening its disaster response readiness, reinforcing the country’s role in international humanitarian assistance when required.