KUALA LUMPUR: Two new Agusta 139 helicopters have been allocated for the Fire and Rescue Department, says the Housing and Local Government Minister.
Nga Kor Ming said the ministry always supported the department's efforts to provide the best services for the people.
"The department will soon receive two new Agusta 139 helicopters. This brings the total number of helicopters managed by the department to 11.
"I am confident that the department can bring more progressive and effective services," he said at the launch of the Fire and Rescue Department's Chinese New Year operations on Friday (Jan 2).
At a press conference, Nga said details on the new helicopters' arrival would be announced later.
"It's not just for the Fire and Rescue Department but also the Royal Malaysian Police and the Civil Defence Force," he said.
Nga also reminded those returning to their hometowns to take the necessary precautions during the festive season.
"Turn off your electrical switches before heading home. Plan your trips, and if you are tired on the road, take a short break," he said.
He added that 2023 was a challenging year for the department, with close to 35,000 distress calls for fires and some RM2.6bil in losses estimated due to fires.
"This is a worrying figure, with the amount also higher than the Selangor state government's budget," said Nga.
Fire and Rescue Department director-general Datuk Nor Hisham Mohammad and senior ministry officials were also present.
