State approval sought for sites to build stations

KUCHING: The Malaysia Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) is seeking approval from the Sarawak government for its land application to construct one or two fire and rescue stations in the state’s coastal area.

Its director-general Datuk Nor Hisham Mohammad said two potential sites have been identified for the construction of new fire stations, which would enhance firefighting coverage across Simunjan, Saratok and Tanjung Manis.

He stated that there is a pressing need for fire stations in the coastal area due to rapid development.

“We know that traffic is expected to surge along the coastal line once the bridge projects are complete.

“That said, we have identified two sites and hope the Premier of Sarawak will consider the proposed sites, allowing us to proceed with the necessary paperwork to present to the central agency.

“This would enable us to begin construction for the fire station on one or both sites,” he said when met by reporters after attending the Bomba-Steel Recon Industries (SRI) Outreach Programme, which was officiated by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian yesterday (Sept 29).

Nor Hisham stated that with construction of fire stations at both sites, it would allow Bomba to respond to any incident swiftly along the coastal area.

Meanwhile, on the organisation of the outreach programme, he praised Sarawak for leading the way in organising the most firefighting programme that engage both public and private sectors.

“These programmes aim to educate the community on fire safety and inculcate volunteerism among the community.

“When the community participates, it indirectly builds a stronger spirit of volunteerism in the community, which is what we are striving for.

“When we look out for our neighbours, we build a better community for the future,” he said.