Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) is enhancing its operational assets to better prepare for forest fires anticipated due to the Super El Nino phenomenon, expected to impact the country early next year.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, JBPM's director-general, Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad, announced that the department is incorporating additional fire engine pumps and four-wheel-drive light operational utility vehicles to brace for the dry weather conditions that are forecasted to accompany this climatic event. JBPM has already received 80 fire engine pumps and is set to acquire an additional 40 by the end of this month.

Nor Hisham highlighted that JBPM has procured 200 units of light operational utility vehicles designed to act as first responders in small-scale forest fires. These vehicles will be deployed initially for reconnaissance missions, to open access routes, and to extinguish fires immediately if possible, thereby improving the team's mobility. This information was shared during a press event following the inauguration of the 2026 Fire and Rescue Games (SUKBOM).

The director-general emphasized that JBPM's primary focus is on evaluating the impact of Super El Nino, expected to affect the Pacific region by late November 2026, with repercussions in Malaysia anticipated by the end of January 2027. He stated, "Our focus is on preparing for the impact of Super El Nino on the country's dry weather conditions early next year, without neglecting operations during the Southwest Monsoon."

Nor Hisham also cautioned the public against open burning activities, noting that such actions could lead to rapidly spreading fires that are challenging to control.

In addition to addressing these preparations, Nor Hisham officiated the 2026 SUKBOM, where 1,384 competitors participate across 11 events. The championship also serves as a selection platform for JBPM athletes aiming to compete in the 2027 World Police and Fire Games in Perth, Australia, based on their performances.