KUALA LUMPUR: The deadly Hong Kong high-rise inferno that has claimed more than a hundred lives should be a wake-up call for Malaysians to take fire safety far more seriously, says Fire and Rescue Department director-general Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad (pic).
Describing the devastating loss of life as a warning, Nor Hisham said Malaysians must not assume such disasters are unlikely, especially in older high-rise buildings or those undergoing renovation.
He noted that the Hong Kong fire involved an ageing building complex under renovation, compounded by bamboo scaffolding and safety nets that accelerated the spread of flames.
“While fire risks in Malaysia are lower since we don’t use bamboo scaffolding, some risk still exists because safety nets are also used.”
Nor Hisham said the incident underscores the urgent need to upgrade ageing buildings to meet modern fire safety standards.
“This is crucial to reduce risks related to internal wiring and firefighting equipment, which may deteriorate over time.”
He also urged Malaysians to take responsibility for their own safety.
This includes recognising electrical hazards early, ensuring escape routes remain unobstructed, taking evacuation drills seriously and immediately reporting faulty fire safety equipment in their buildings.
Families, he added, should ensure that everyone knows how to react calmly during a fire.
During an emergency, he reminded the public not to use lifts, to stay low to avoid smoke and to check door handles before opening them, as a hot handle likely indicates flames behind the door.
“Close doors behind you to slow the fire. Help vulnerable neighbours only if you can do so without endangering yourself.”
For those trapped, Nor Hisham advised sealing the safest room with wet towels, calling emergency services, staying low and signalling rescuers from a window without breaking it.
“If fresh air is needed, open windows only slightly. A fully opened window can allow smoke or heat to rush in and worsen the situation.”
Nor Hisham added that victims should never hide under furniture, as this makes it harder for firefighters to locate them. Instead, they should stay near windows or open areas where rescuers can spot them quickly.
He stressed that preventing tragedies requires vigilance from everyone, from building management ensuring systems are functional to residents remaining alert.
“It is the shared responsibility of all parties to reduce fire risks and ensure proper measures are in place should a fire occur.”
Hong Kong is now grappling with its deadliest blaze in decades. The fire, which broke out on Wednesday at a high-rise housing complex in Tai Po, has so far claimed 128 lives as of yesterday afternoon, with many more still missing as rescue operations continue.
