To improve the readiness and the well-being among its personnel, the government has approved RM132.4 million in development allocation for the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP).

Concerned for the development of fire and rescue services in the country, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the government has taken various efforts to fulfill the service commitments towards Malaysians especially regarding the firefighting infrastructure development and human capital. 

The allocation covers procurement of fire engines, utility vehicles, fire forensics vehicles, personal protective equipment (PPE) and firefighting monitoring software systems aimed at boosting the department’s effectiveness in handling emergency cases.

Ismail Sabri had earlier officiated the 2022 World Firefighters’ Day with the theme “Bomba Frontliners, Keluarga Malaysia” which was also attended by Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican and Fire and Rescue Department director-general Datuk Seri Mohammad Hamdan Wahid.

In terms of welfare, Ismail Sabri said the government had approved the extension of special skills allowance payment applications to officers acting as coaches and teachers at the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Academy.

"Firstly, payment for Hazmat incentive will now involve a rate of RM30 for each operation (with a maximum of RM600 monthly), the incentive payment for rescue in water will involve a rate of RM30 for each operation (with a maximum of RM600 monthly)”

"The incentive payment for EMRS will now involve a prorated payment (with a maximum of RM150 monthly), and finally, the special driver allowance, also a prorated payment (with a maximum of RM150 monthly),” said the Prime Minister.

The allowance approval will benefit 114 fire officers from Grade KB19 to KB38 who are assigned as coaches and teachers at five academies.

“With this approval, coaches and teachers with these special skills will continue to boost commitment and quality of work to create human capital of quality and integrity,” he added.

National Fire And Rescue Policy 2021-2030 

The Housing and Local Government Ministry as well as the Fire and Rescue Department have enacted the National Fire And Rescue Policy 2021-2030 (Dasar Kebombaan dan Penyelamatan Negara (DKPN) 2021-2030).

The policy is to improve efficiency and professionalism through various strategic programmes and action plans involving all levels of the Keluarga Malaysia in facing future challenges. Plus, it also involves commitment from all parties to craft strategic partnerships with safety, fire and firefighting industries.

He said that consolidation of fire protection aspects using the latest technology like automation and robotics would increase confidence not only among Malaysians but also industry players and investors.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said he was confident that the policy would create Keluarga Malaysia who are resilient and able to adapt the concept of citizen lifesavers in their daily lives, especially in facing any emergencies or disasters.