Sarawak records 1,675 open and forest fire cases

A TOTAL of 1,675 open and forest fire cases were recorded in Sarawak from January to September 2026, affecting 1,697.75 hectares of land.

In stating this, the Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government cum Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the Fire and Rescue Department Malaysia (JBPM) Sarawak responded to 7,374 emergency calls between January 1 and September 27.

He said the calls comprised 2,465 fire-related incidents, 4,874 rescue operations and 28 special service cases, resulting in the preservation of assets valued at RM443.27 million.

“The monthly average for open and forest fire calls had reached 186 cases, a significant increase compared to the monthly average of 85 cases recorded for the previous year.

“This was further reflected in the annual value of asset preservation over recent years, with RM2.03 billion in 2023, RM751.1 million in 2024 and RM551.03 million in 2025, highlighting the Department efforts and interventions in mitigating losses to the public and the nation,” he said during his ministerial winding-up speech at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting here today.

On fire and rescue services in Bukit Mabong, Dr Sim said there were currently no plans to establish a fire and rescue station there.

“However, the need for a station is determined by a ‘Fire Cover Study’ using TM Malaysia’s Smart Map.

“This study evaluates seven key criteria: Response Time, Risk Profile, Population, Topography, Socioeconomic and Political Factors, Coverage Area Size, and Strategic/Special Requirements,” he said.

Meanwhile, he added that the proposed Kabong Fire and Rescue Station is currently under consideration.

“The proposed site located at Lot 1019, Block 14, Kalaka Land District was relocated to another Federal agency.

“However, the Department has re-applied for the release of the said land through the Federal Lands Commissioner. The funding for this proposed project is listed under Rancangan Malaysia and is still pending for the approval,” he added.

For the proposed Engkilili Fire and Rescue Station, he said the department had paid the land premium and started the procurement process.