Melaka government is offering free admission to selected tourist attractions to veteran uniformed personnel in conjunction with commemoration days.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh said that to mark International Firefighters Day, the initiative is also extended to serving firefighters till June 5.
“Firefighters, both current and those retired, only need to present their service or identification cards to enjoy free entry to state-owned tourist attractions, while accompanying family members will receive a 50% discount.
“This is a token of appreciation from the state government for the contributions of the ‘red heroes’ who are always on the frontline during fires, accidents, floods and other disasters,” he told reporters, Bernama reported.
Ab Rauf said this after attending a meet-and-greet and appreciation event for retired firefighters in conjunction with the Masjid Tanah parliamentary-level Firefighters Day celebration.
Also present was Melaka Fire and Rescue Department director Mohd Zaidi Ma’at.
Ab Rauf said firefighters’ responsibilities extended beyond extinguishing fires, as they also play a crucial role in rescue operations and disaster management.
According to statistics from the Melaka Fire and Rescue Department, 5,162 emergency operations were recorded in the state last year, of which 1,594 involved fires.
“What is encouraging is that these figures show a decline compared to previous years, reflecting the effectiveness of preventive measures, the preparedness of the fire and rescue team and greater public awareness.
“When people face emergencies and disasters, they place great hope in firefighters.
“That is why their service and sacrifices must continue to be recognised.”
Ab Rauf said the state government had, over nearly three years of his administration, implemented initiatives to strengthen the operational capabilities and welfare of the Fire and Rescue Department in Melaka.
Among them was the contribution of 11 chainsaws worth more than RM32,000 for fire stations statewide, particularly for use during disasters and emergency operations.
He said more than RM44,000 had also been channelled to support programmes, welfare initiatives and efforts to enhance the preparedness of the fire and rescue team.
