In 2023, the Selangor Fire and Rescue Department reported a total of 7,350 fire incidents in the state, which included the airplane crash incident. This number marks an increase from the 6,294 cases recorded in 2022, according to director Wan Md Razali Wan Ismail.
Wan Md Razali stated that the incidents resulting in loss of life had shown a decline from 32 fatalities to 16 from 2019 to 2021. However, 2023 saw an increase, with 21 lives lost. He mentioned this during the launch of the Fire Safety Campaign ahead of the Chinese New Year celebration held in Shah Alam on Saturday (Feb 3).
Throughout the upcoming festive period, approximately 1,120 out of nearly 1,600 firemen will be on duty, Wan Md Razali noted. He also mentioned that only 30% of their personnel have been allowed to go on leave, ensuring that at least 470 members and officers are on duty every day.
Wan Md Razali also stated that nearly 50% of buildings categorized as designated structures under the Fire Services Act 1988 in Selangor lack a fire certificate (FC). “In Selangor, there are 1,844 buildings categorized as designated premises under the Act to obtain a FC and as of 2023, only 980 have the required certification, which is less than the mandated number.” He also mentioned that last year, charges were filed against 99 premises owners for non-compliance with fire safety requirements.
He also reported that during the same period, Selangor received 1,239 applications for FC, with 1,036 undergoing checks and 997 being processed for FC issuance. “The certificate will be granted upon meeting the fire safety requirements,” he said.
During the Fire Safety Campaign, Wan Md Razali emphasized that a range of violations occurred, such as blocking safety exit routes, issues with malfunctioning pump systems, problems with emergency lights, and unauthorised modifications to designated premises made without approval from the fire department. These violations led to charges being filed against 99 premises owners. – Bernama
