By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, April 26: In response to a string of recent fire incidents affecting kampung areas in Kuching, the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (BOMBA) has taken a proactive step by training 50 villagers as community firefighters under the Sarawak Zone 1 Community Firefighter Programme.
The two-day programme, which concluded today at the Tabuan Jaya Fire and Rescue Station, involved participants from five kampungs—Kampung Tabuan Paya, Tabuan Jaya Tengah, Tabuan Dayak (Bukit), Sungai Nada, and Tabuan Laru.
It focused on equipping residents with both theoretical and hands-on firefighting skills to respond quickly during emergencies.
Sarawak Bomba deputy director Tiong Ling Hii said the initiative marks a shift from conventional fire awareness talks to a more impactful, action-based approach.
“Participants didn’t just listen to lectures—they suited up in full firefighting gear, learned to handle fire extinguishers, and went through live fire simulations.
“These community firefighters will serve as the first responders in their kampungs while awaiting Bomba’s arrival,” he said in his speech.
Meanwhile, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, who officiated the closing ceremony, stated that this programme could not have come at a more timely moment.
“Over the past year, we have witnessed a few unfortunate fire incidents in our kampung areas.
“These events, while regrettable, have also highlighted the urgent need for better fire safety awareness and preparedness at the grassroots level,” he said.
To complement the programme, MBKS contributed 10 fire extinguishers to the participating kampungs as part of its broader Safe City Programme.
“I’m sure these two small extinguishers alone may not be enough to stop a fire—but they serve as a tool for awareness.
“Once you have them and learn how to use them, every time you see one, it reminds you that you’ve been through the training, and it’s now your duty to protect yourself, your family, and your community,” he added.
Wee also expressed full support for the idea of nurturing community firefighters—trusted individuals trained to act swiftly during emergencies and serve as fire safety advocates within their villages.
He called for the initiative to be expanded to more zones across Kuching South.
The programme, jointly supported by MBKS and the Village Affairs Bureau of SUPP N.11 Batu Lintang, is part of BOMBA’s broader effort under the 2021–2030 National Fire and Rescue Policy to strengthen community partnerships and disaster readiness. – DayakDaily
