SEREMBAN: The Fire and Rescue Department’s K9 Dog Detection Unit will receive 16 new canines from the United Kingdom this year, costing RM2.4mil, says Datuk Nor Hisham Mohammad.
The department director-general said this would complement the existing 20 live assets across the country, further strengthening K9 operations.
“Half of the current dogs are over 12 years, compared to the recommended age range of eight to 10 years. The initial selection process for 20 dogs has already been completed in the UK.
“We will send three of our officers to work alongside trainers there in June.
“They will train them first. From the 20, they will reduce it to 16. If any of the selected puppies are not suitable, they will look for others,” he told reporters after attending the Hari Raya celebration at the state headquarters.
Nor Hisham said the sniffer dogs include breeds such as the English Springer Spaniel and Labrador Retriever, which are more suited to Malaysia’s tropical climate and have more effective specialised functions.
There are four specialised disciplines for K9 dogs: wilderness search and rescue, fire forensics, water cadaver detection and urban search and rescue.
“If there are no obstacles, some of the 16 dogs will be trained in the country. We will conduct internal training with Genting World Bhd for other classes,” he said.
Nor Hisham added that 30 new fire engine units, worth RM45mil, will be received in the next six months.
