Bomba bolsters flood response

KUCHING: The Malaysia Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) is bolstering its preparedness for flood disasters by refining its standard operating procedures (SOPs) and increasing workforce capacity.

Bomba director-general Datuk Nor Hisham Mohammad said that one of the key measures being implemented is extending shift durations from 12 hours to 24 hours.

This change is expected to increase workforce capacity by 30 per cent, ensuring a more robust response to flood emergencies.

In addition, the department is implementing a strict leave freeze for its personnel during flood disasters and establishing a Rapid Intervention Team (Red Team).

“When urgent needs arise in a location, we deploy the Red Team,” he told reporters after the commissioning ceremony for the STORM unit at Bomba Headquarters today (Sept 30).

“Our Red Team is the first to enter ground zero to enable operations to commence.”

To further enhance its flood response capabilities, Bomba is prepared to mobilise 1,101 officers from its STORM unit during flood emergencies.

He also highlighted the importance of inter-agency coordination in addressing flood incidents.

“This cooperation acts as a frontline commander to address incidents at the local level, depending on suitability,” he added.