Kuching: The Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM) Sarawak is fully equipped with the necessary resources, personnel, and officers to manage the current surge in fire incidents across the state, as confirmed by its director-general Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad. The department's readiness is bolstered by a personnel-to-population ratio that exceeds the national average and operational strategies at various levels, including station, zone, and state, as well as measures like shift adjustments, leave freezes, and personnel redeployment. According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nor Hisham emphasized that JBPM Sarawak maintains efficient response times, which vary depending on location and accessibility, particularly in challenging areas. The department collaborates with multiple agencies, highlighting the importance of integrated enforcement by local authorities, the Department of Environment (DOE), and the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB). Nor Hisham outlined that standard operating procedures (SOP) on open burning provide clear guidelines for all stakeholders, including plantation and agricultural landowners, emphasizing the need for logistics and firefighting personnel deployment for quicker initial responses. He also mentioned that satellite imagery is utilized to identify hotspots, though public reports remain the most effective for early detection. He noted that if necessary, fire and disaster operations would be coordinated under the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), particularly for large-scale incidents that surpass state-level capabilities. Additionally, new fire stations are being developed in stages in Sungai Asap (Belaga), Engkelili (Sri Aman), and Dalat (Mukah) to enhance response times and expand coverage, especially in rural and interior regions. Nor Hisham also advised the public to stay vigilant and refrain from open burning, especially during hot weather. JBPM Sarawak reported fires in Kampung Penasu, Daro, and Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Sibu, affecting about 10 and 16 hectares respectively. Meanwhile, a fire in Kuala Tatau-Serupai, Bintulu, now in its sixth day, has impacted about 400 hectares, with 100 hectares brought under control yesterday.