SIBU: The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department is stepping up monitoring and preparedness measures as the state enters a hotter and drier period that could increase the risk of bush, forest and peatland fires.
Its director Jamri Masran said prolonged dry weather could significantly raise the risk of vegetation fires, particularly in peatland areas that are highly flammable when dry.
“Sarawak is particularly vulnerable because more than 70% of Malaysia’s peat swamp forests are located in the state.
“When peat soil dries during extended dry spells, it becomes extremely flammable and fires can burn underground for long periods,” he said yesterday.
Jamri noted that such underground peat fires are difficult to detect and suppress, often requiring extensive resources and time to control.
Historically, dry seasons in Borneo have been associated with recurring forest and peatland fires.
“So we are giving serious attention to the coming hot and dry season while maintaining controlled readiness through preventive monitoring and rapid response capability across Sarawak,” he said.
According to Jamri, analysis of emergency calls last year showed several areas in the state being more prone to open fires during prolonged dry spells.
Zone 4 (Sibu) recorded the highest number of emergency calls with 361 cases. The main hotspots included Sungai Merah with 99 cases, Mukah (66) and Sibu Jaya (40), while Sibu Sentral, Daro and Tanjung Manis also recorded significant fire risks.
To ensure quick response times, Jamri said all fire stations are on heightened alert with rapid response teams being prepared to deal with vegetation fires.
In addition, it is continuously monitoring satellite hotspot data and weather forecasts in collaboration with the Malaysian Meteorological Department.
Jamri said the department has sufficient manpower and operational assets to handle normal vegetation fire incidents.
For large-scale peatland or forest fires, it will activate multi-agency cooperation involving the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee, logistical support from other agencies and aerial surveillance if necessary.
