KUCHING: After more than three decades of unwavering service, former Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Director Datuk Khirudin Drahman launched his maiden book, marking a significant milestone in his career dedicated to public safety and fire prevention.
Titled ‘The Man Behind the Fire Prevention Programs in Sarawak – Innovative Fire Prevention Methodology Safeguarding Our Natural Heritage’, the book was officially launched by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian on Tuesday (July 2).
In his address, Khirudin expressed deep gratitude for the support he received throughout his tenure, particularly from the Sarawak government, the media, and his family.
He also extended special thanks to the Premier of Sarawak and the State Cabinet for their continuous encouragement in promoting total fire safety throughout the state, which he described as a key source of motivation in completing the book.
The publication, which recently won the Anugerah Khas Buku Negara 2025 under the category Buku Umum Terbaik (Elemen Keselamatan dan Kesejahteraan Komuniti), aims to inform, educate and empower communities across Sarawak on fire safety and prevention.
“The purpose of this book is multi-faceted – to raise public consciousness, facilitate continuous learning, encourage collaboration, and promote proactive fire safety planning.
“In my 36 years of service, I have witnessed tragedies that were avoidable. Prevention is better – and it is preventable,” he said.
Khirudin, who is currently the Deputy Fire Commissioner of Bomba Malaysia, emphasised the collective responsibility in safeguarding lives and property, stating that the book offered practical guidance and insights from his years of experience to help mitigate risks and cultivate a resilient, safety-conscious society.
“Fire – it’s always a losing battle, no matter how good we are. That’s why prevention is key. Through my experiences and determination in this field, I hope to inspire change and protect more lives,” he stressed.
Khidurin also paid tribute to his wife and his children, acknowledging the personal sacrifices made in his lifelong mission.
He honoured mentors such as former Director-General Prof. Datuk Dr Son Chai Hock, and thanked figures like Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, members of the Industrial Safety Committee (IKS), and Leonard Sabu for their unwavering support in completing the book.
He also singled out members of the media for their crucial role in his journey, including Sarawak Tribune’s Sarah Hafizah Chandra and DayakDaily’s Nancy Nais, for motivating him toward the book’s completion.
“To all my media friends – RTM, TVS, Sin Chew, Borneo Post, Sarawak Edition – thank you for standing by our efforts in raising fire safety awareness. Your role has been invaluable,” he said.
