KUCHING: Volunteer firefighting teams (PBS) play a crucial role in emergency response efforts especially in remote areas.
In stating this, Tiong Ling Hii, the acting director of the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) said the department therefore plans to reactivate inactive PBS teams.
“Currently, 38 PBS teams are active, but many face resource shortages, such as a lack of vehicles. Efforts are underway to assist these teams with re-registration and resource allocation.
“The goal is to increase the number of active teams to 58 or more, enhancing coverage in areas without fire stations.”
“In collaboration with the Malaysian Fire Protection Association, Bomba Sarawak will donate 10 new pumps to these teams, with an equipment presentation ceremony scheduled for August 3,” Tiong said after officiating at the Monthly Assembly and Fire Safety Campaign During Hari Gawai 2024 at Bomba headquarters on Wednesday (May 29).
He also noted the importance of improving the department’s response time index, which is currently at 66 per cent, to stay above the national average.
Tiong acknowledged the geographical challenges but reaffirmed the commitment to better response times through the reactivation and support of volunteer teams.
In a similar development, he reported a 5.1 per cent decrease in fire-related emergency calls in the first quarter of 2024.
The department received 3,164 calls this year, down from 3,367 last year.
However, the number of actual fire incidents rose from 513 cases in 2023 to 781 in 2024, primarily due to a spike in bushfire calls between February and April.
In addition to the fire statistics, he highlighted ongoing challenges related to seasonal flooding.
A recent flood warning remains in effect for Long Bemang, where water levels are at 1.5 metres.
But no evacuation has been necessary due to the elevated design of longhouses and volunteer firefighting teams are on standby to ensure residents’ safety.
