SHAH ALAM, Feb 28 (Bernama) -- The Highland Towers tragedy, which claimed 48 lives 32 years ago, remains a dark chapter in Malaysian history, leaving a lasting impact on retired firefighter Datuk Dr Soh Chai Hock.
Each time he caught sight of the remaining blocks of the Highland Towers condominium in Taman Hillview, Ulu Klang from afar, the former director-general of the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) found himself offering a silent prayer, hoping Malaysia would never witness such a disaster again.
*"Every time I drive past MRR2 in Hulu Klang or see Highland Towers online, I can’t help but say a prayer. To this day, the tragic scene remains fresh in my mind.
"Back then, we (firefighters) didn’t know much about building collapses, and we lacked proper rescue gear too. But I knew my team was looking to me for instructions, ready to act immediately,”* he said at the Selangor JBPM Appreciation Ceremony here today.
Nearly 500 retired officers and firefighters from across Selangor attended the ceremony at the state’s JBPM headquarters.
On Dec 11, 1993, at 1.35 pm, the 12-storey Block 1 of Highland Towers, which housed 50 residential units, collapsed, and firefighters spent 12 days carrying out a search and rescue (SAR) operation.
The incident prompted significant improvements to JBPM’s standard operating procedures (SOP), especially in rescue operations, and led to the establishment of the Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) the following year.
Recalling that anxious moment, Soh said the rescue operation faced major challenges as fire personnel had to rely solely on ladders, ropes, and a few vehicles with limited capabilities, but remained resolute in their mission to rescue victims, whether alive or dead.
“I am proud of the dedication shown by the officers and members involved, and with the support of many, including rescue teams from Japan and France, we successfully completed all missions,” said Soh, who retired in 1999.
Commenting on the advancements in firefighting skills and equipment, he expressed his satisfaction with efforts to strengthen resources and enhance training for major disaster response.
He emphasised that in the context of team spirit, a leader should recognise the hardships faced by members in the field, as every task involved risks and demanded full commitment."
“It’s important to understand what our members go through, how exhausting the job can be, and to stay united regardless of religion or race, because that helps keep everyone motivated to do their best,” he said.
-- BERNAMA
