KUCHING: Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) has called on business operators to improve fire safety awareness and preventive measures at their premises.
MPP chairman Tan Kai said fire prevention awareness and preparedness among business owners and employees must be continuously strengthened.
He pointed out that the ‘Fire Safety Programme for Business Premises’ aims to provide education and exposure on fire safety while cultivating a stronger culture of fire prevention among businesses.
“The programme also trained participants to take early action in extinguishing small fires before they spread,” he said during the closing ceremony today (May 9).
He said MPP is not only focused on municipal services and development, but also placed strong emphasis on community safety and wellbeing through continuous risk awareness initiatives.
He noted that similar fire safety programmes were organised annually, particularly for the business community under MPP’s jurisdiction, as commercial premises were among the most frequently visited places for daily activities such as dining and shopping.
“Fire safety is a very important aspect in managing a business premise. Fire incidents not only result in property losses but can also threaten lives and affect businesses,” he said.
Recalling a past fire incident in 7th Mile, Tan said the tragedy served as a reminder on the importance of preventive measures, particularly in ensuring electrical wiring systems and appliances were properly maintained.
He said that faulty or poorly maintained electrical wiring remained among the common causes of fire incidents, urging business operators to regularly inspect their premises and fire safety equipment to minimise risks.
“In emergency situations, time is very precious because the right action taken early can save lives and property,” he said, stressing that safety should not be viewed as an option but as a shared responsibility requiring cooperation from all parties.
Tan emphasised that fire safety requires shared responsibility, urging all stakeholders to work together to reduce risks and ensure safer commercial premises.
