RM26mil needed to equip disaster teams, says Nga

 

Fire stations have been put on alert during the Chinese New Year period, says Nga Kor Ming, the minister for local government development. (Bernama pic)

KUALA LUMPUR: The finance ministry has been asked to provide RM26.35 million for equipment to improve the efficiency of disaster rescue teams.

Among the equipment sought are: inflatable boats, all-terrain vehicles, military modular tents, sleeping bags, tactical hydration backpacks, fire-resistant suits, and battery-powered LED lights.

Standby rooms at 150 fire and rescue stations across the country are to be improved, and the Volunteer Fire Brigade strengthened, said the minister for local government development, Nga Kor Ming.

He said all fire and rescue stations were in a state of readiness for emergencies during the Chinese New Year festive period. Patrols will be carried out in areas identified as fire-prone hot spots, and sites of drownings, especially in recreational areas.

-ADVERTISEMENT-

Ads by 

Nga said a total of 26,561 fire distress calls were received in 2022, a drop from 35,902 the previous year. The fires caused losses amounting to RM1.32 billion, he said. - FMT