<p>According to Datuk Seri Safar Untong, a total of 908 houses in water villages in Sabah were destroyed by fire last year, which is a significant increase from the 250 houses affected in 2021. The losses for these 908 houses amounted to an estimated RM25.5mil, compared to RM6.7mil in 2021. Safar made this statement during the commissioning ceremony of 40 members of the Pasukan Bomba Komuniti (PBK), or community fire team, for Kota Kinabalu zone. These team members will serve four water villages in the state capital. Abdul Razak Muda, Sabah Fire and Rescue director, was also present at the event.
<p>Safar highlighted the unique challenges faced by firemen in dealing with fires at water villages. He mentioned that the closely knit houses in water villages make it difficult for personnel and assets to access the locations, posing safety risks for the firefighters. As a result, it is crucial to establish community fire teams to prevent or respond to fires in water villages in Sabah.
<p>Safar emphasized the significant responsibilities of the PBKs in their respective communities and mentioned that the selected members will undergo firefighting technique modules. These modules will cover the importance of fire safety through theoretical and practical training. The members will also learn about how fires can start and the actions to take in such situations to avoid being trapped in burning structures.
<p>Safar stated that the establishment of PBKs is a proactive move by the Fire and Rescue Department to address fires in water settlements. Meanwhile, Abdul Razak mentioned that the department has plans to establish three more PBKs in Sabah water villages in the coming year.
<p>
