KUCHING: The planning for the establishment of two new Fire and Rescue Stations under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) – one in Batu Kawa and another in Kota Sentosa here is presently underway.
Director of the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (BOMBA) Datuk Khirudin Drahman, mentioned that the construction of both stations is anticipated to begin this year, extending into the following year.
“The allocation of 12MP covers the Batu Kawa and Kota Sentosa fire stations, along with several fire station quarters.
“The implementation is anticipated to occur either this year or the next, and the total allocation is yet to be confirmed. Once the relevant ministries make the announcement, we will proceed with the subsequent steps,” he conveyed to reporters during the Chinese New Year Fire Safety Campaign 2024 at the Chung Hua Batu Kawa Association Hall here today.
Sarawak currently operates 39 fire stations and requires a total of 66 based on location studies and response times during fire incidents.
“Thus far, our 39 fire stations have effectively fulfilled their duties, as indicated by positive records from the previous year,” he said.
In a related development, he underscored the substantial contribution of voluntary and community fire brigade services in addressing fire incidents in the vicinity.
“We are actively working on establishing a fire brigade community to prioritise early prevention measures, particularly within the first five minutes.
“Despite the vastness of Sarawak, we remain committed to continuous improvement,” he concluded.
Also present during the ceremony was the chairman of Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) Tan Kai.
