KUCHING: Radio communication equipment is crucial to Bomba’s (Fire and Rescue Department) swift response to emergencies.
“Information relayed to Bomba from the community using radio communication equipment allows our personnel to respond to distress calls, especially in hard to reach areas.
“Thus, our relationship with the Radio Emergency Drone Sarawak (REDS) is crucial as they continue to help us obtain necessary information on emergencies in Sarawak.”
This was said by Sarawak Bomba director Datuk Khirudin Drahman after a radio communication equipment handover at the State Bomba Operations Centre, on Friday (March 25).
“Sarawak is the largest state in the country and its topography is really condense, and there are many blackspots across the state where communications is not available.
“We are currently using the Government Integrated Radio Network (GIRN), however, it is sometimes weak and cannot reach certain areas.
“So by having the VHF radio and communicating with REDS members all across the state, this is an added value to the department to increase our response time.”
Khirudin added that they would also set up the VHF radio, especially in the northern part of Sarawak and in the Mulu area.
“Members of REDS are mostly volunteers with various background – army and police retirees, teachers, and others who have passion in handling radio equipment.
“They are always on the ground and if there are incidents or disasters happening in their area, they can relay information to the operation centre to dispatch units.”
Khirudin also mentioned that this was in line with National Fire and Rescue Policy 2021-2030 in its third strategy, which is inclusive strategic cooperation, and enhance collaboration in research, exchange of expertise and technology transfer with educational institutions, public agencies, the private sector and industry.
He explained that the department’s relationship with REDS had been strengthened following a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for Special Communication Services Cooperation.
“As the advisor of REDS, I will try to get grants from the state government to improve our communication capabilities across Sarawak.
“I also hope that infrastructure will be improved in order to send our logistics and supplies as well as radio equipment that can be useful in times of emergency.”
REDS president Chai Kim Sin said a total of 92 members were already stationed across Sarawak, namely in Serian, Bau, Lundu, Selangau, Telok Melano, and mostly in the Kuching Zone.
