By Lian Cheng
KUCHING, May 30: Out of the 66 government buildings across Sarawak, 28 have yet to obtain fire certificates from the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba).
According to Sarawak Bomba director Datuk Khirudin Drahman, out of the 66 State and Federal government buildings, only 38 have obtained their fire certificates.
“The rest (remaining 28 buildings) are still under annual inspection,” said Khirudin at a press conference after the official launch of a fire safety campaign in conjunction with the Gawai Dayak celebration held at the Sarawak Bomba headquarters here today.
He said for the government buildings that have yet to comply with requirements to be given the fire certificate, notices will be sent.
In cases of compliance failure, Bomba will hold on to the fire certificates.
“If they refuse to comply, we will bring them to court. But usually, government (bodies) will comply, and we give them time,” said Khirudin.
Meanwhile, on the reason leading to the fire in the server room of Wisma Bapa Malaysia on May 26, Khirudin said the case is still under investigation.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who officiated at the function, said Deputy State Secretary Dato Sri Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki is holding a meeting today (May 30) to look into the incident.
“Abu Baker is calling for a meeting today so that they will decide the way forward. It is always important to make sure risks could be reduced,” said Uggah when asked to comment on the lack of fire certificates in certain government buildings.
According to Bomba, to get a fire certificate, the ‘designated building’ must meet specific criteria, including establishing a Building Fire Committee (OKK) consisting of management and a fire safety manager.
Under the Fire Services Act 1988, nine categories of premises must have fire certificates — libraries, hospitals, hotels, hostels, offices, shops, factories, assembly and storage areas. — DayakDaily
