Off-duty Firefighters Hailed For Rescuing Two Women, Proof Of Constant Readiness

SIK, April 28 (Bernama) -- The swift actions of two firefighters who successfully rescued two women, including an elderly victim, from the recent food court fire in Felda Sungai Tiang, Pendang, have underscored the rescue team’s constant readiness to respond to emergencies.

Kedah Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) director Awang Hidzel Awang Bujang said the bravery shown by Mohamad Anas Elyas, 33, and Muhammad Athir Maula Mat Esaha, 34, deserved praise and should serve as an example.

“Trained firefighters would always be on standby to face any emergency and carry out rescue operations. We are grateful that both victims were saved without serious injuries, thanks to the swift action of our personnel and assistance from members of the public.

“I also advise the public to ensure the safe use of gas and to equip their premises with fire extinguishers,” he told Bernama after presenting certificates of appreciation to the two firefighters during a working visit to the Sik Fire and Rescue Station.

Meanwhile, Mohamad Anas, who is attached to the Kedah JBPM Operations Centre, described the incident as one of the most meaningful experiences in his service.

“People see us as rescuers. Even though we were not in full uniform at the time, we were still called upon to help. The only thing on our minds was to save the victims first, then think about how to put out the fire,” he said.

He also expressed gratitude and pride for the recognition received from the department, as well as the positive support from the public.

“We feel appreciated, and this motivates us to continue upholding the good name of the fire service,” he added.

Muhammad Athir, on the other hand, advised business owners, particularly food stall and grocery shop operators, to keep fire extinguishers on their premises as an early safety measure.

“Every premises should have at least one fire extinguisher, whether ABC or CO₂ type. However, a 9kg ABC extinguisher is more suitable as a precaution, as incidents can happen unexpectedly,” he said.

On April 19, the two firefighters, who had stopped by the food court near Masjid Al Falah in Sungai Tiang, rescued two women after a fire broke out in a stall's kitchen at about 5.15 pm.

They pulled an elderly woman from the flames to safety before the fire was brought under control.

Footage of their swift and courageous actions, recorded by bystanders, later went viral on social media and drew widespread praise from netizens.

-- BERNAMA