KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) successfully raided several shop premises that were modified without permission in operations around the city.
The operation, carried out in collaboration with the Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK), found that two premises had committed the offence of converting from business premises to accommodation.
In fact, the operation also found that both premises had committed various offences including irregular electrical wiring systems, narrow exit routes and no emergency action plan.
Sabah State Fire and Rescue Department Director, Mohd Pisar Aziz, said the Bird’s Nest Room and Lahad Burrow Room operations were carried out as an enforcement and preventive measure to ensure that fire safety aspects were always at the prescribed level.
He said that JBPM views this matter seriously because the safety of life and property is the department’s top priority.
“Any condition or modification of premises that could affect fire safety aspects should not be taken lightly.
“The operational approach is not solely enforcement-oriented, but also places emphasis on aspects of prevention, compliance and fire safety awareness,” he said in a media statement issued yesterday.
Mohd Pisar said that during the operation, his party also detected other errors, including electrical systems, fans and other equipment that were not properly maintained, as well as premises being used not in accordance with the approval or approved use of the building.
“These offences are categorised as ‘fire hazards’ as interpreted in accordance with Section 2 of the Fire Services Act 1988 (Act 341).
“A Notice to Eliminate Danger was also issued in accordance with Section 8 and Section 13 (Closing Order) of the Fire Services Act 1988,” he said.
In this regard, Mohd Pisar said Sabah JBPM would continue to strengthen enforcement and monitoring actions in stages throughout the state based on the results of identification and inspections carried out by each zone.
He said that all premises owners and management are advised to fully cooperate with the Fire and Rescue Department to take immediate action if there are fire safety aspects that need to be corrected.
“Fire safety is a shared responsibility. Don’t wait until an incident occurs before we realize to fix the situation.”
“Operations like this will continue in the future,” he said. – Fardy Bungga
Operation focuses on premises modified without permission.
