The Public Health, Housing and Local Government Ministry, through the State Fire and Rescue Department, has initiated a proposal for a new category of fire stations specifically designed for rural areas.
Its Minister Datuk Amar Dr. Sim Kui Hian said that the technical and financial requirements of these new fire stations are under review. He mentioned that the department is currently conducting a situational analysis before finalising the proposal for submission to the Federal Local Government Development Ministry (KPKT).
“In the meantime, the department has successfully secured RM3.5 million for the physical implementation of the proposed Kota Sentosa Fire Station and RM7 million for the proposed Sungai Asap Fire Station in 2024,” he said during his ministerial winding-up speech in State Legislative Assembly (DUN) today (Nov 28).
Additionally, he revealed that the department has identified suitable land for a new fire station at Sebuyau, which has been submitted to Putrajaya for endorsement and approval.
Dr. Sim, who also serves as the Deputy Premier, mentioned that the proposal for the fire station at Dalat has been submitted to the Implementation and Coordination Unit (ICU) of the Prime Minister’s Department for budget allocation under the 12MP Rolling Plan 4.
“The proposed new fire station at Batu Kawa, involving the purchase of identified industrial buildings, is in the approval process by the Department of Director General Lands and Mines Putrajaya and has also been submitted to ICU, Prime Minister’s Department for budget allocation under 12MP Rolling Plan 4,” he added.
Furthermore, he noted that a total of 8,912 emergency calls were received from January until October 31, 2023, consisting of 1,888 fire outbreak calls, 6,802 rescue calls, 217 calls for special services, and five prank calls.
“The department managed to save properties worth RM1.15 billion,” he added.
