Kuala lumpur: The Federal Government has sanctioned an annual budget of RM278.9 million for the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) to carry out 86 development projects under the First Rolling Plan of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP). This allocation includes 27 new initiatives and 59 ongoing projects throughout the nation this year.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Housing and Local Government Deputy Minister Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu highlighted that seven facility development projects are underway in Pahang under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) and the First Rolling Plan of the 13MP. These projects comprise the acquisition of the Gohtong Jaya Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) building and quarters, construction of the Benta BBP, and the Tioman BBP and quarters. Additionally, upgrades are being made to the Bentong BBP and Kuantan BBP, the Triang BBP is being reconstructed, and preliminary site work is being conducted for the Tanjung Lumpur BBP.
In her address during the inauguration of the Sungai Lembing BBP, officiated by the Sultan of Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, Aiman Athirah noted that the RM6 million Sungai Lembing BBP, established on a seven-acre site, is the 29th BBP in Pahang. Operational since February 15, the station aims to enhance fire and rescue services for approximately 15,000 residents in Sungai Lembing and its neighboring areas.
The Deputy Minister emphasized that the Sungai Lembing BBP is envisioned to evolve beyond a fire and rescue operations center. It aspires to become a comprehensive hub for imparting knowledge, skills, and community awareness, ultimately cultivating more citizen lifesavers.
Deputy Economy Minister and Paya Besar Member of Parliament Datuk Mohd Shahar Abdullah added that the Sungai Lembing BBP's construction is integral to the area's development framework, which is bolstered by various conservation and development initiatives. Efforts to rejuvenate Sungai Lembing as a heritage town include restoring the PCCL Cinema, developing ecotourism products, constructing a digital museum, upgrading the Sungai Lembing Tunnel, and working towards designating the area as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
He stressed that these development endeavors would lack significance without prioritizing safety. Following the Sultan of Pahang's decree, the Sungai Lembing BBP's establishment has been successfully accomplished. This station not only enhances emergency preparedness but also supports Sungai Lembing's transformation into a safe, modern, and thriving heritage town.
This event was attended by Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail and State Legislative Assembly Speaker Datuk Seri Mohd Sharkar Shamsuddin.