KUCHING, Sept 29: The Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) is looking to strengthen the capabilities of its voluntary units and hopes for ample funding for it in the coming National Budget 2020 announcement on October 11.
Bomba director-general Dato’ Mohammad Hamdan Wahid said his department had submitted several applications to the Ministry of Local Government and Housing to strengthen its assets in the state, particularly for the setting up of small Bomba stations in rural areas, especially those far away from the main stations.
“We may not be able to afford building full fledged Bomba stations so we could also strengthen our voluntary units by providing them with operation centres, logistical needs and their PPE (Personal Protective Equipment),” he said after closing the Interstation Bomba Ping Pong Competition at the State Youth and Sports Complex here earlier today.
Mohammad Hamdan also soft-launched the Kuching Fire Fighter’s Run there.
Commenting on the proposed purchase of a Bombardier aircraft for the state Bomba to fight forest fires especially during the haze season, he said his department has been discussing with the federal government on the need for a practical aircraft for Sarawak which would best respond to emergencies involving forest fires and industrial emergencies.
“We did not specify what kind of aircraft Sarawak (Bomba) needs but we are looking at the needs and practicality in terms of operations,” said Mohammad Hamdan. — DayakDaily
