KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 1 (Bernama) -- The Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) is expected to continue its success by securing recertification as a Heavy Urban Search and Rescue (Heavy USAR) team.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the recognition through the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) External Reclassification (IER) would further strengthen the team's international standing while enhancing Malaysia's reputation on the global stage.
He said SMART's efficiency, discipline and teamwork not only inspire public confidence but also make the nation proud through its humanitarian and disaster relief missions internationally.
"As Chairman of the National Disaster Management Committee, I deeply appreciate SMART's role as one of the main pillars in strengthening the country's preparedness to face any disaster," he said in a Facebook post today in conjunction with SMART's 31st anniversary.
He also expressed his highest appreciation and congratulations to all SMART personnel for their unwavering commitment and dedication in carrying out their responsibilities both at home and abroad.
He said SMART continues to demonstrate Malaysia's capability as a world-class search and rescue team and remains a key pillar in enhancing the country's disaster preparedness.
"In every disaster, every second of search and rescue counts in saving lives. Behind every successful mission lies the courage, determination and sacrifice of personnel who consistently place the safety of victims above their own interests.
"These are the values that have been the foundation of SMART's strength since its establishment," he said.
Using the call sign MAS-1, SMART became the second rescue team in ASEAN, the eighth in the Asia-Pacific region and the 46th in the world to be recognised as an INSARAG Heavy Urban Search and Rescue Team in 2016, placing it among the world's elite rescue teams.
Established on Aug 1, 1995, SMART was formed following the collapse of the Highland Towers condominium in December 1993, a tragedy that highlighted the urgent need for Malaysia to have a specialised and highly trained disaster rescue team.
-- BERNAMA