Calm yourselves down, we are here to save lives - Fire Dept chief to rioters

"Let them know that we are doing whatever we can to save people's lives. We serve with good intentions. We save all, regardless of who they are, by risking our own lives."

That was the message by Fire and Rescue Services Department director-general Mohammad Hamdan Wahid when asked what was his message to the rioters near the Sri Maha Mariamman temple in USJ 25, Subang Jaya, early this morning.

One of his men - Muhammad Adib Muhammad Kassim - is now battling for his life after was assaulted while on duty, by the rioters early this morning.

Mohammad Hamdan was addressing reporters after visiting Muhammad Adib, 24, at a hospital in Subang Jaya today.

Meanwhile, Mohammad Hamdan urged those who felt aggrieved by the situation surrounding the temple to control their emotions and act in accordance with the law.

"We also work in accordance with the law... What they did was saddening. All the rescue department personnel sacrifice themselves for others.

"Even if there is a fire at the homes of the rioters, we will respond," he said.

Rioting was sparked by a group of masked assailants who attacked the temple on Monday morning.

Last night, thousands gathered near the temple in a show of support but violence ensued after midnight.

Rioters set cars on fire and smashed the offices of MCT Bhd, the former owner of One City Sdn Bhd, which is the owner of the land where the temple is located.

When Muhammad Adib and his colleagues attended to the emergency, there were attacked by the mob.

Muhammad Adib was dragged out of a van and assaulted.  - Mkini