Five PPRs, 147 flats in Melaka to undergo fire checks

New Straits Times

23-05-2025

MELAKA: The Fire and Rescue Department will conduct full-scale enforcement operations to strengthen fire safety systems across all People's Housing Projects (PPRs) and flats in the state.
Melaka Fire and Rescue Department director, Assistant Fire Commissioner Mohd Zaidi Ma'at, said the inspections would identify and eliminate fire hazards at the premises, including faulty fire safety equipment such as hydrants, hose reels and extinguishers, whether due to lack of maintenance or acts of vandalism.
Zaidi said the initiative followed a recent fire incident at PPR Krubong which claimed the life of a four-year-old boy.
"I have instructed officers to carry out thorough inspections at all apartment blocks in Melaka to ensure that firefighting equipment is in good condition and fully operational during emergencies.
"We have identified five PPRs and 147 apartment buildings to be included in the operation.
"The inspections will begin this week, and a comprehensive report will be compiled for all premises involved," he said at a press conference after officiating the JBPM Melaka 2025 Fire Organisation Seminar at a resort here yesterday.
The event was officiated by Housing, Local Government, Drainage, Climate Change and Disaster Management senior deputy executive councillor, Datuk Zulkiflee Mohd Zin. Also present was Fire and Rescue Department deputy director-general (development), Othman Abdullah.
Mohd Zaidi said legal action could be taken under Section 8 of the Fire Services Act 1988 (Act 341) for the removal of fire hazards if it was found that residents had vandalised firefighting systems or equipment at PPRs or flats.
"I urge Joint Management Bodies (JMBs) and building management to set up community fire brigades or safety organisations to carry out preliminary inspections of fire safety systems at their premises," he said.