KUCHING, May 12: The unique challenges faced by Sarawak due to its vast geographical distances and sparse populations have rendered the standard criteria for fire stations in Peninsular Malaysia unsuitable for Sarawak.
With that, Deputy Premier Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian has tasked the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Sarawak to come up with a detailed cost benefit analysis and build of quantity for the new fire station for special consideration by the Federal Ministry of Local Government Development.
“The ultimate goal is to enhance fire protection and service coverage across Sarawak.
“As for long term solutions, we are also seeking different considerations and justifications for approving and constructing Bomba stations in Sarawak from the Federal Ministry, by taking into account Sarawak’s unique geographical spread and demographics,” he said in a statement today following a visit to Federal Minister of Local Government Development Nga Kor Ming in Putrajaya recently.
Dr Sim added that this issue has been under discussion for several years, but previous efforts have not yielded satisfactory results.
This development is crucial as it will contribute significantly to bolstering fire safety measures and improving emergency response capabilities throughout the region.
In his social media post yesterday, Dr Sim during the courtesy visit had mentioned to Nga that Sarawak currently only has 39 fire stations which are significantly below the required 60 fire stations as suggested by the Bomba Fire Risk Assessment.
“Bomba services are under the Federal List. Even the 39 fire stations do not have (meet the standard practice of) two fire engines per station as is the norm in Peninsular Malaysia,” he pointed out.
Dr Sim said Nga responded with graciousness and frankness, expressing his commitment to work together for the betterment of Malaysia as a whole.
Nga acknowledged the unique circumstances faced by Sarawak and offered his assurance that Sarawak would be included in the Ministry’s programmes.
Deputy Minister of Public Health and Housing Datu Dr Penguang Manggil, Deputy Minister of Public Health and Housing Michael Tiang, Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government permanent secretary Elizabeth Lo and Bomba Sarawak director Datu Khiruddin Drahman were present at the event. — DayakDaily
