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PUTRAJAYA – The Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has frozen 70% of its officers’ and personnel’s leave to ensure emergency preparedness remains at its highest level throughout the Aidilfitri festive season. This means 11,500 firefighters will be on duty nationwide.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming announced that only 30% of JBPM personnel will be granted leave on a rotational basis to maintain sufficient workforce levels.
“We want to ensure that our emergency response teams remain fully prepared. In addition to our own personnel, we will continue working closely with the police to enhance safety and security,” he stated during the launch of Ops Siaga Raya 2025, which will be in effect from March 29 to April 3.
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Fire Incidents Expected to Decrease This Year
During the 2024 Aidilfitri period, JBPM recorded 1,303 fire-related incidents, marking a 22% increase from 1,068 cases in 2023. Minister Nga expressed hope that this number will decline this year through the implementation of Ops Siaga Raya.
“To achieve this, public cooperation is crucial. We urge all homeowners to double-check their electrical appliances before leaving for their hometowns. Safety is a shared responsibility,” he emphasized.
JBPM to Station Personnel at Key Highway Locations
In addition to regular emergency response efforts, JBPM will station personnel at 12 key locations along major highways under Op Selamat 2025, a traffic safety operation managed by the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM). These locations span multiple states, including Kedah, Penang, Perak, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Johor, and Pahang.
With the Aidilfitri travel rush approaching, authorities are urging Malaysians to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent fire hazards and road accidents. — Bernama