Penang: Renovations and changes in the use of old buildings without corresponding upgrades to fire safety measures have been identified as among the factors that can increase the risk of fire incidents. Penang Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) director Mohamad Shoki Hamzah said the situation often occurs when buildings originally constructed as shophouses are later converted into restaurants, hotels, entertainment centres or other commercial premises that attract large numbers of people.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamad Shoki highlighted that the fire risk in old buildings is not solely due to the age of the structure. More concerning are the various renovations and changes in use without necessary improvements to fire safety measures. His comments followed a fire at an entertainment outlet in the Odeon building on Jalan Penang, which last Saturday claimed the life of a Myanmar construction worker.
Other factors contributing to increased fire risks include aging electrical wiring, confined building spaces, and the close proximity of premises, which can enable rapid fire spread. Common weaknesses identified during inspections include obstructed emergency exits, malfunctioning emergency doors, inadequate fire detection systems, and poorly maintained fire safety equipment.
Mohamad Shoki emphasized the importance of regular inspections of electrical systems by competent parties, proper provision and maintenance of fire safety equipment, and training employees on how to respond to fires and use safety equipment effectively.
While acknowledging an improvement in fire safety awareness among building owners and operators in Penang, he called for further enhancements, particularly in early fire detection systems, safety equipment maintenance, emergency exit management, and fire drills. He also highlighted the challenge of balancing heritage preservation with fire safety in places like George Town, urging building owners to prioritize safety.
He encouraged the installation of early fire detection systems, regular maintenance of electrical wiring, and attention to emergency action plans and fire drills in old and heritage buildings, which are significant historical and cultural assets.
The recent incident involved a 56-year-old Myanmar construction worker, Mohamad Boshi Sabi Ullah, who died from smoke inhalation after being trapped in a fire during renovation works at the Odeon building, previously known as Theatre Royal and King's Theatre, which has been part of Penang's entertainment landscape since the early 20th century. The cinema ceased operations in 2014 after screening a wide range of films, marking the end of an era for Malaysia's last single-screen cinemas dedicated to Indian films.