Bomba mulling sprinkler systems in longhouses 

Mohammad Hamdan (seated centre) with other guests posing for a group photo during the closing of the programme.

By Jaythaleela K

MIRI, Nov 2:  Bomba Malaysia is looking into fire safety aspects in longhouses, and this could include the installation of residential sprinklers.

The installation of the residential sprinklers, said Bomba director Mohammad Hamdan Wahid, would help during fire outbreak especially those located within the interior areas.

“Perhaps we will meet up with the Malaysian Fire Protection Association and chart suitable system frameworks within longhouses on how to manage fire outbreak,” he revealed.

Mohammad Hamdan was met after closing the Summer Camp 2018 today at Eastwood Valley Golf and Country Club Miri.

The three-day programme held from October 30 helped in capacity-building and  managing fire outbreak among locals, especially longhouse folks.

Also present during the closing ceremony was Sarawak Bomba Director Khirudin Drahman, Miri Fire and Rescue Chief, Supt Law Poh Kiong and Petronas Carigali Sdn Bhd (PCSB) Sarawak Oil Asset Malaysia Head, Anuar Ismail.

On the programme, Mohammad Hamdan said that it was critical for participants to have knowledge on how to handle a fire emergency.

Since the programme’s inception in 2014, a total 300 people have taken part in the lifesaving programme. The programme’s target groups are those residing in the interior areas.

The programme was organised by Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Malaysia and Petronas Carigali Sdn Bhd (PCSB) Sarawak Oil Asset Malaysia.

Mohammad Hamdan also revealed that they would submit a proposal to the state government in order to make the programme as part of the state’s affairs.

“We wish for the State governments assistance in terms of funding to strengthen our logistics,” said Mohammad Hamdan.

A total 50 participants from Bekenu, Lambir, Marudi, Telang Usan and Mulu constituencies took part in this year’s Summer Camp.

“When a fire breaks out in a longhouse, quick response is very important for us, hence, it is crucial we have trained longhouse folks in handling fire outbreak,” said Tuai Rumah Duat Kalom, who at 80 years old, is the oldest participant.

For Duat, from Sungai Kelitang, Sibuti, who had served in Sarawak Rangers in the 1960s, the programme was an eye-opener on how to manage fire during emergency. — DayakDaily