By Nancy Nais
KUCHING, April 15: Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) is hoping to introduce economic incentives for the community.
While most people may ask what does economic incentives have to do with Bomba, its director Datuk Khirudin Drahman said such incentives have the potential to reduce fire incidents that may result in fatalities and property damage.
“I hope to introduce something similar to what we did in Kuala Lumpur. We can suggest it to Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) and General Insurance Association of Malaysia (PIAM) for houses that are covered with fire insurance.
“It is something similar (concept) to our vehicle insurance. If there are no accident claims during that coverage period, then owners can get the No Claim Bonus (NCB) discount for future premiums,” Khirudin said after receiving 50 packets of porridge from Grand Continental Hotel in conjunction with the month of Ramadan at Bomba headquarters here yesterday.
In the case of fires, he explained that houses which have insurance coverage but no fire incidents throughout the coverage period can enjoy a discount on their future premiums.
However, Khirudin said the idea is still being discussed between BNM and insurance companies.
Since public safety is a key factor, the department is focused on developing and implementing safe standards of practice and forming strong community partnerships for a safer and more viable community.
Another incentive which he is hoping to emulate and introduce in Sarawak are special grants for government Housing Program For The Poor (PPRT) or People’s Housing Project (PPR).
For any of these housing schemes, Khirudin explained that it can be rewarded to those who can successfully take care of public properties involving fire systems or equipment such as hydrants, hose reels, sprinklers, break glass and so on.
“Upon yearly inspection by Bomba, if there are no cases of vandalism recorded at the end of each year, then the building will be given a special grant for being a safe PPRT or PPR.
“Fire-fighting equipment is often a target, where even small amounts of damage can lead to much larger consequences if a fire were to break out,” he explained.
Khirudin also gave the example of how Kuala Lumpur Municipal Council (DBKL) had to spend some RM30 million per year to maintain or repair fire safety systems and equipment.
Instead of spending taxpayer’s money on something that may repeat over and over again, he suggested it could be reduced by changing the people’s mindset.
“Residents will also learn to appreciate public property and realise the importance of fire equipment that can actually save their lives and properties one day. To be safe or not, it is up to you.
“That is also why I have always emphasised on the importance of education and I believe proper incentives can help. This is an idea which I hope the government will consider,” Khirudin said. — DayakDaily
