KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 5- The National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) is strengthening its disaster preparedness through strategic collaboration with government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the private sector.

NADMA director general, Datuk Khairul Shahril Idrus, stressed that the move aims to ensure the country's preparedness is more efficient, responsive and effective, for the well-being of the people.

"We have implemented various improvement measures including training involving all relevant agencies, NGO involvement in coordination as well as new, flexible and efficient standard operating procedures (SOPs)," he said this to reporters after appearing as a special guest on the Selamat Pagi Malaysia programme on RTM's TV1.

Khairul also explained that NADMA does not only focus on flood hotspot areas, but ensures that all areas in the country are monitored comprehensively.

"We are making preparations everywhere and throughout the country, not just focusing on specific areas or leaving out any area," he said when asked to comment on the recent flash floods that occurred in several areas in Ipoh, Perak.

The move is part of efforts to ensure that assistance to flood-affected residents can be channeled quickly and accurately, thus, speeding up recovery efforts and easing the burden on disaster victims.

Meanwhile, he said NADMA also faced a major challenge in curbing the spread of fake news which can cause panic among the public.

"Fake news creates confusion, dissatisfaction and does not reflect comprehensive disaster management. Therefore, awareness and verifying information is very important," he added.

With the implementation of these proactive measures, NADMA hopes that disaster management can be at the best level.

It is hoped that close cooperation between various parties will ensure the safety and well-being of the people continues to be guaranteed, even though the country faces major challenges during disasters.