GEORGE TOWN: Electrical wiring faults remain the leading cause of fires involving heritage buildings in Penang, based on Fire and Rescue Department data.
From 2020 to Monday (May 18), a total of 16 heritage building fire cases were recorded within the state. 14 of them were found linked to electrical wiring, while one involved welding activity and another was caused by an open flame.
The highest number of cases was recorded in 2020 with six incidents, followed by four in 2024 and two in 2025.
Penang Fire and Rescue Department director Mohamad Shoki Hamzah said the trend was worrying as heritage buildings held historical and architectural value while serving as symbols of the state identity.
"Once destroyed by fire, such heritage cannot be restored to its original condition. Most heritage buildings are decades, or even centuries old," he said.
He said factors such as ageing electrical wiring, inconsistent maintenance, unapproved renovations, excessive electrical loads and low awareness of fire safety could increase the risk of fires at any time.
"Hot work activities such as welding carried out without strict safety procedures also pose a serious threat to the safety of heritage buildings," he said.
Mohamad Shoki said the department was urging premises owners, tenants, business operators and the public not to take fire safety lightly.
"Electrical systems should be inspected and maintained regularly by competent personnel, while any renovation work and hot work activities must comply with established safety procedures. A complacent attitude towards fire safety can invite major tragedies that not only result in property losses but can also claim lives," he said.
He said the department would continue intensifying inspections, enforcement and fire safety advocacy programmes, particularly involving heritage buildings across the state.
"However, fire safety requires commitment and cooperation from all parties together with the department. The community must become the 'eyes and ears' by immediately reporting any risky conditions and ensuring a culture of safety becomes part of daily practice," he said.
He added the heritage possessed today was a trust for future generations, and people should not only realise the importance of safety after fires and destruction occurred.
Separate statistics showed the department responded to 2,434 emergency calls up to March this year, comprising 1,360 fire-related incidents, 927 rescue operations and 136 special task calls.
Within the period, the department recorded one death, eight injuries and 27 rescues in fire incidents, while rescue operations resulted in 37 fatalities, 64 injuries and 196 people rescued.
A total of 11 false alarm calls were also received.
The department estimated losses from incidents handled this year at RM23.86mil, while assets worth RM45.08mil were successfully saved.
Since 2023, the department has responded to 24,522 emergency cases, including incidents up to March this year.
The operations resulted in estimated losses of RM264.18mil, while assets worth RM1.08bil were successfully saved.
