Johor bahru: More than 800 personnel from the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) have been placed on standby for the Chinese New Year and Hari Raya Aidilfitri festive seasons to respond to any emergencies in Johor. State JBPM director Siti Rohani Nadir stated that this initiative involves 34 fire stations across four zones: Zone 1 (Johor Bahru, Pontian, and Kulai), Zone 2 (Kota Tinggi and Mersing), Zone 3 (Batu Pahat and Kluang), and Zone 4 (Muar, Segamat, and Tangkak).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, personnel on duty will remain at their respective stations to respond swiftly to any incidents, whether fires or other emergencies, particularly at residential areas and high-traffic premises. Siti Rohani highlighted that Fire Safety Inspections (Fire Hazard Elimination) are being carried out at crowded locations such as shopping malls, supermarkets, retail outlets, and hotels.

To date, 31 high-risk premises have been inspected since the inspections began on February 19, continuing until April 6. Siti Rohani made these remarks after launching the state-level Public Awareness and Safety Campaign, in conjunction with the 2026 Chinese New Year and Hari Raya Aidilfitri, officiated by Kluang member of Parliament Wong Shu Qi.

The department targets inspections of 200 high-traffic premises during this period and has issued four Fire Hazard Elimination notices to non-compliant premises. Violations include the storage of combustible items, blocked emergency exits, poorly maintained fire safety equipment, and non-functioning safety systems.

JBPM Johor plans to extend fire safety inspections to other popular spots such as guesthouses, resorts, and holiday destinations. The department urges individuals and business operators to check their premises, as festive seasons typically see increased cooking and heavier use of electricity and gas, raising the risk of fire.

Today's program featured safety briefings by JBPM officers, fire-extinguisher demonstrations, and practical fire safety tips for the public.