Author: Datu Khirudin Drahman

Heroes battling Sarawak’s fires

As someone who has spent years in the Fire and Rescue Department, or as we’re often called, “Abam Bomba”, I have seen firsthand the unique challenges we face here in Sarawak. Our state is the largest in Malaysia, with a terrain that’s beautiful yet unforgiving. Much of Sarawak is remote,

Prioritising prevention key to fire safety

After nearly 35 years of service, having held senior positions across various states and now stationed at the headquarters, I have realised that the most crucial task of the fire service is not what most people think. While many associate firefighting with the role of the Fire and Rescue Department

Never say ‘it won’t happen to me’

OVER the past few weeks, the Sarawak community was rattled by a series of unexpected and devastating fire incidents. Fires broke out in residential areas, shophouses, factories, and other high-hazard installations, causing extensive damage to properties and livelihoods. The sheer scale and frequency of these incidents have left many questioning

Educating youth by igniting their awareness

In today’s world, the importance of fire safety cannot be emphasized enough, especially for the younger generation. While advancements in fire safety technology and regulations have been made, many Malaysians, especially Sarawakians, remain unaware of the dangers they face and how to mitigate them. The root of this issue can

Preparing for emergencies

In recent times, both local incidents in Sarawak and national events have shed light on a critical issue: our preparedness for emergencies and disasters. The ancient Roman general Flavius Vegetius Renatus once wisely said, “Si vis pacem, parabellum,” which translates to “If you want peace, prepare for war.” This centuries-old

Cultivating a culture of fire prevention

In recent weeks, Sarawak has been struck by a series of tragic events that have resulted in the loss of many lives — fires, drownings, and road accidents have cast a sombre shadow over the community. These incidents prompt a crucial question: despite the continuous efforts of government agencies to

Preventing tragic drowning incidents

Every year on July 25, the world observes World Drowning Prevention Day, a crucial event established by the United Nations in April 2021. This day aims to highlight the global issue of drowning and promote measures to prevent these tragic incidents. Drowning is a leading cause of injury-related death worldwide,

World Drowning Prevention Day: A Call to Action for Malaysia and Beyond

EVERY year on July 25, the world observes World Drowning Prevention Day, a crucial event established by the United Nations in April 2021. This day aims to highlight the global issue of drowning and promote measures to prevent these tragic incidents. Drowning is a leading cause of injury-related death worldwide,

Adopting a total fire safety mindset

THIS week, I am excited to introduce a national initiative focused on enhancing fire safety through a holistic and inclusive approach. Our aim is to implement strategies that resonate across diverse communities and knowledge levels, fostering a culture where fire safety is ingrained in daily life. Over the past two

Sarawakians aspire to be fire safety champs

Sarawakians aspire to be fire safety champs THIS week, I want to explore how Sarawakians have responded to the total fire safety programme and its impact on their daily lives. The people of Sarawak are determined to become champions in fire safety, covering their homes, workplaces, and the environment. This