Malaysia Cell Broadcast System test: what to expect on 19 Nov
MCMC's Cell Broadcast test on 19 Nov sends simulated disaster alerts to phones in four states via local towers.
- 01/12
MCMC runs live Cell Broadcast test on 19 Nov A simulated disaster alert will blast through phones in selected flood-prone areas of Selangor, KL, Kelantan and Pahang. It is a drill, not a real warning. - 02/12
44 countries with mobile warning systems 44 countries already run mobile disaster alerts UN figures cited in 2025 show at least 44 countries have deployed mobile-based public warning systems for earthquakes, tsunamis, floods and severe storms. - 04/12
What the alert does NOT need Monthly statement Phone number Not required SMS or mobile data plan Not required Internet connection Not required Third-party app Not required CBS transmits through a dedicated radio channel on local cell towers. None of the following are required: - 05/12
2025 disaster losses (DOSM) RM636.9m RM636.9 million lost to disasters in 2025 The Department of Statistics Malaysia recorded RM636.9 million in disaster losses last year, down from RM933.4 million in 2024. RM380.2 million hit public assets and infrastructure. - 06/12
From policy to pilot 2024 RM933.4m in disaster losses 2025 RM636.9m; system enters final phase 14 Oct 2026 Zahid announces test at Ipoh 19 Nov 2026 Live CBS pilot in four states The CBS is in its final development phase. - 07/12
Three alert levels, two languages The ministry said alerts must clearly distinguish between general advisories, severe warnings and mandatory evacuations, delivered in Bahasa Melayu and English with local dialects where necessary. - 10/12
Zahid: trust is the real test
Photo: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau / CC0 1.0At National Preparedness Month 2026 in Ipoh on 14 October, Deputy PM Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said: 'Technology is only effective if the public trusts accurate information.' - 11/12
Built for every phone Vibrations and audio alerts Screen reader support Voice output for visual impairment Local dialects where necessary
The system includes features so users with visual, hearing or reading disabilities can still receive and understand emergency alerts. - 12/12
Bottom line One siren, one rule On 19 November, if your phone in Selangor, KL, Kelantan or Pahang blasts a disaster alert, it is a drill. The real system will send three levels of warning in Bahasa Melayu and English via local towers, no app needed.
Questions people ask
What is the Cell Broadcast System test on 19 November?
MCMC will run a live pilot of the Cell Broadcast System in selected flood-prone areas of Selangor, KL, Kelantan and Pahang. Phones in those zones will receive a simulated disaster alert. It is a drill, not a real warning.
Do I need an app or internet to receive the alert?
No. CBS transmits through local cell towers on a dedicated radio channel. It does not require a phone number, SMS plan, internet connection or third-party app.
What happens if my phone receives the test alert?
Your phone will sound a siren and display a simulated evacuation or disaster message. Do not treat it as a real emergency. It is a scheduled test by MCMC.
Keep reading
Malaysia Can Sue Haze Companies, Not Indonesia: Legal Path and Costs
Senior lawyers say the legal path is against haze companies, not Indonesia. The AATHP has no enforcement clause. Daily losses hit RM50mil; here is what the law allows and what the government is doing.
RM1,500 BKK for 1.3 Million Civil Servants Under Budget 2027
Budget 2027: 1.3 million civil servants get RM1,500 BKK in two payments before Aidilfitri and Merdeka. Covers Premier Grade B and below, including contract appointees.
RM1,000 One-Off Aid for 38,000 Taxi Drivers in Malaysia
A one-off RM1,000 aid is being paid to 38,000 taxi and rental car drivers in phases from 12 October 2026. Who qualifies and what it actually covers.