KOTA SAMARAHAN: A total of 120 students from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) took part in a water safety programme organised by the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Sarawak Zone 2, which concluded at the university’s swimming pool here on Thursday (April 16).
The ‘Jom Belajar Berenang’ programme was part of Bomba’s preventive efforts to reduce water-related incidents through early exposure and practical training.
UNIMAS Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni), Prof. Dr Al-Khalid Othman officiated at the closing ceremony, marking the end of the programme’s first phase.
Bomba said the encouraging response reflected growing awareness among young people on the importance of water safety, with participants, including members of the ‘UNIMAS Pegawai Bomba Bantuan (PBB) Kor Siswa’.
“Programmes like this are not merely recreational, but serve as an early intervention to equip participants with basic swimming skills and water safety knowledge,” it added.
The initiative formed part of its continuous approach to strengthen prevention, particularly in reducing the risk of drowning incidents.
Throughout the programme, participants were guided by trained Bomba personnel, focusing on essential techniques and safety practices in water environments.
“Through direct engagement with the community, we are able to deliver safety awareness more effectively while encouraging preparedness in facing emergencies,” the statement said.
Following the strong participation, the programme is expected to continue with a second phase in July, with plans to expand its reach to a wider group.
