By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 4: A new ‘AgustaWestland AW139’ helicopter will be stationed in Miri to strengthen the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia’s (Bomba) preparedness for the Northeast Monsoon and disasters such as forest fires.
Director-general Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad said the acquisition of the helicopter was part of a concession agreement, which saw the department receive two additional units, bringing the total to six AW139 helicopters in Bomba’s fleet.
“At present, Bomba has four AW139 helicopters stationed in Peninsular Malaysia. With these two additional units, one will be designated for Sarawak,” he said, as reported by TVS.
Nor Hisham said this during a press conference after officiating at the Fire Department Service Medal Award Ceremony here today.
According to him, the helicopter will be stationed in Miri based on studies involving the number of cases, response time, and logistical needs.
“For now, we are comfortable keeping it in Miri as it is strategically located for operations. We also have yet to establish a base in Sabah, so Miri remains the best option.
“I do not see the need to station the helicopter in Kuching,” he added. — DayakDaily
