JBPM Executes 143 Rescue Missions For Flood Victims In Sabah, Sarawak - Deputy DG

KUALA TERENGGANU, Feb 4 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has carried out 143 rescue operations in flood-affected areas of Sabah and Sarawak.

JBPM deputy director-general (Operations) Datuk Ahmad Izram Osman said that the total included 62 operations in Sarawak, rescuing 2,681 victims, while 81 operations in Sabah helped 1,325 victims.

“The flood situation in Sabah and Sarawak remains serious. In Sarawak, floods have usually affected Kuching city, but this time, areas such as Bintulu, which are rarely impacted, are also facing severe flooding.

“However, the situation is under control, and so far, our officers and personnel in both states have managed the situation effectively, both in terms of personnel and logistics, without the need for assistance from the Peninsula,” he said.

He said this after a working visit to the Terengganu JBPM headquarters, where he also presented donations to 33 members of the JBPM Welfare Association who had been affected by the December floods in the state.

In related news, Ahmad Izram added that the department remains on high alert as the Northeast Monsoon season is expected to continue until mid-March.

However, he noted that the freeze on leave for officers and personnel had been lifted, with the exception of states still grappling with floods. Directors in each state are now authorised to manage personnel leave rotations or even recall staff to duty as needed, depending on the situation.

Meanwhile, Ahmad Izram shared that the department is implementing various initiatives, including the 'Wellness Hub,' to ensure that officers and personnel maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI) between 28 and 20.

He stressed that this is crucial for ensuring the physical well-being of the team, enabling them to perform rescue operations effectively.

“Recently, we have witnessed personnel succumb to heart disease and cancer. In response, the department has launched the 'Wellness Hub' programme, designed to monitor and promote the fitness levels of our personnel, ensuring their BMI remains within the healthy range of 28-20.

“As a rescue team operating on the front line, agility and physical fitness are essential. If our fitness levels are low, how can we effectively carry out our duties?” he added.

-- BERNAMA