MACHANG: Around 250 former army commandos from the Kelantan branch of the Malaysian Veteran Commandos Club are prepared to be deployed to flood-prone areas during the upcoming monsoon season.
Club adviser Captain (Rtd) Ariffin Abdul Rani said they have been assisting non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in disaster relief efforts for the past five years.
"Every year, when floods hit Kelantan, several NGOs seek our help in distributing aid to victims. Some of our members are also affected, so we assist both the NGOs and our own members," he said.
Commandos from four districts will join NGOs in reaching flood-prone areas, using their skills to provide necessary aid.
In addition to flood relief, Ariffin said the group also helps with funeral arrangements and other disasters.
With predictions of severe floods in Kelantan this year, Ariffin said, "Our members are on standby and ready for any situation."
He added that some of their members have also travelled abroad with NGOs to assist in international crises, including helping Palestinians affected by ongoing conflict.