Rural Sarawak communities face fire risks amid limited access, resources, says Sibu Bomba chief

Borneo Post

24-07-2025

Firefighters from Bomba Zone 4 Sibu in full gear as they prepare to respond to emergencies — a task made even more challenging in Sarawak's remote and hard-to-reach areas. – File photo
SIBU (July 24): Communities in rural Sarawak remain vulnerable to fires due to poor road access, limited fire station coverage, and a shortage of firefighting resources, said Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Zone 4 Sibu Chief, PgKB I Andy Alie.
He said in many interior areas like Julau and Selangau, response time becomes a race against terrain with firefighting teams often face significant challenges, navigating narrow or unpaved roads, or even rivers, just to reach emergency sites.
'In some areas, weak mobile coverage further complicates efforts to even call for help,' Andy told The Borneo Post.
'With fire stations spread apart and firefighting resources stretched thin, delays in response can prove critical.
'In an emergency, every minute counts. For some longhouses, help could be 45 minutes away,' he said, citing Julau where the nearest station is located in Bintangor.
Despite these challenges, Andy noted a positive shift in community engagement.
'Since January, we've conducted over 200 fire safety programmes in schools, kampungs, longhouses, and even industrial areas,' he said.
'People are responding well – especially in longhouses and schools. They're taking ownership of fire safety,' he shared.
Among the department's active initiatives are the Junior Fire Club for students, the establishment of 17 community fire and rescue teams (CFRTs), and outreach programmes in longhouse communities through 25 fire awareness campaigns.
'These programmes are making a difference. We're already seeing fewer minor fires and fewer cases caused by the careless use of electricity,' Andy said.
To improve emergency response, he said Bomba has proposed the construction of new fire stations in high-risk rural zones.
'Dalat, for example, is currently served by a station in Mukah which is up to 30 minutes away.
'In places like Julau, we're proposing new stations to bring help closer to the people,' he explained.
However, he emphasised that fire safety is not just about physical infrastructure but also collaboration with communities.
Looking ahead, Bomba Zone 4 Sibu will focus on strengthening its partnership with local leaders to promote grassroots-level fire prevention.
Plans are also in place to expand the CFRT programme to more longhouses and remote areas.
In tandem, he said firefighters will undergo more intensive training to prepare for natural disasters like floods and droughts.
Fire safety audits will also be conducted at high-risk premises, including factories, schools, and elderly care centres, to ensure compliance.
Andy also issued several reminders for household fire safety, particularly during dry spells and festive periods when risks are higher.
'Don't overload your sockets. Never leave stoves or candles unattended. Avoid open burning, especially during dry weather.
'And if you're going away, make sure your home is safe. Fire safety isn't just the job of firefighters. It starts with all of us,' he concluded. bomba fire risk lead poor road access rural areas