Thursday, 2 April 2026

Author: Datu Khirudin Drahman

Prioritising fire safety, essential precautions

In my previous articles, I have delved into the conceptual perspectives of a total fire safety approach and its critical components. For this week’s column, let’s narrow our focus to a topic that concerns each and every one of us: facing a fire or critical incident and how we can

Crucial role of fire hydrants in safeguarding lives and property

THIS week, I want to delve into a crucial topic that affects the safety and wellbeing of our communities: fire hydrants. While my recent articles have revolved around the principles of total fire safety, this time, I will discuss the significance of fire hydrants and their role in safeguarding lives

Need for collective action to prevent fires

ADDRESSING fire incidents in Sarawak calls for an all-encompassing strategy that goes beyond traditional firefighting measures. In the face of escalating fire threats, it is essential to adopt an integrated approach that encompasses prevention, education, community engagement and strategic planning. This week’s column underscores the pressing need for collective action

Your role matters, fire safety’s new script

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller, 1880 – 1968, American writer. In a world where institutions and authorities are often seen as responsible parties, the way we think about fire safety and security must change. The prevailing notion that fires safety

Community Learning Centre promotes fire safety

“The toddler questioned why matches were not kept in the right place. This is the kind of awareness that we need,” Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas. FIRE safety knowledge among the communities of Sarawak is still far below the required standard.  The basic understanding of total fire

Collective responsibility for fire safety awareness

WHEN examining the overall approach to fire safety, our attention tends to focus on the government and the Fire and Rescue Department (BOMBA). Rarely do we turn the spotlight on ourselves or the members of our communities. However, it is time to delve into our responsibilities and the appropriate actions

Improving fire safety through building ordinance

FIRE safety is an essential aspect that both individuals and governments should prioritise.  Achieving total fire safety requires a well-regulated system and a healthy, conducive environment in which we live and work.  In a previous column, I discussed crucial components that contribute to this goal, and in this week’s column,

Designing for fire safety success

FIRE safety is a critical aspect that needs to be taken into consideration when it comes to building design and operation, whether it is for residential or commercial usage. A comprehensive approach is necessary to ensure the safety of occupants and protect the property. There are five critical components, namely,

Fire safety ultimately a shared responsibility

‘It’s important to teach children about fire safety and prevention in a way that is appropriate to their age.’ – Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, Women, Childhood and Community Well-being Development Minister. MANY people believe that fire safety is the sole responsibility of the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) and government

Fire safety ultimately a shared responsibility

MANY people believe that fire safety is the sole responsibility of the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) and government agencies. However, if we were to look and analyse the statistics as well as the forensic fire post-mortem reports, it is the community themselves who are held responsible. So to change