The process of inter-organizational coordination in humanitarian supply chain during flood disaster relief in Malaysia

A humanitarian supply chain transfers food, equipment, rescue crews, first aid material, and relevant information between the victims of a disaster and actors involved to minimize the toll of death and human suffering. However, many humanitarian aids are criticized for inadequate planning, which results in poor delivery of relief aid and goods in the event of disasters. Recent disasters in Malaysia have exposed the necessity for better management in humanitarian relief work. Thousands suffer huge losses annually due to the rising occurrences of flood disasters in Malaysia. NGOs and government bodies have suggested plans of action to serve as guidance for disaster relief management. Still, until this point, there is a dearth of existing frameworks for humanitarian relief based on supply chain management concepts during flood disaster relief. An organization may be ready to respond in the event of a disaster, but efficiency may be lost when cooperating within a large- scale event. As such, this study will undertake the effort to understand the inter- organizational coordination process in Humanitarian Supply Chain (HSC) during flood disaster relief. Using a qualitative case study approach, this research examines the coordination processes from the HSC’s perspective specifically agility, adaptability, and alignment. This thesis meets its four research objectives by examining inter-organizational roles and components in the Humanitarian Supply Chain during flood relief in Kuala Krai (2014) and Shah Alam (2021). These case studies highlight key lessons and offer insights into improvements in Malaysia’s flood disaster management over time. This framework enhances existing knowledge of inter-organizational supply chains in crisis situations. It aims to improve disaster preparedness and response among government agencies, relief organizations, and communities during future floods. The findings support strategic efforts such as the RM15 billion Flood Mitigation Plan under the 12th Malaysian Plan, designed to strengthen long-term climate change adaptation. In line with Malaysia MADANI’s vision, this work reflects the principle of Ihsan—promoting care, empathy, and compassion in disaster management and national development.