Heritage and pre-war buildings lack modern safety features
PETALING JAYA: Flammable structures, narrow escape routes and ageing safety systems are among recurring fire risks found in heritage buildings nationwide, says the Fire and Rescue Department.
Department director-general Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad (pic) said other possible risk factors include the storage of flammable artefacts such as old books, manuscripts and antique furniture.
“Older buildings also face issues with exit points. This includes the absence of alternative exit routes, narrow exit routes and fire escape staircases built from flammable materials, with some fire escapes also left unprotected,” he said.
According to reports, there were approximately 25,000 pre-war buildings in Malaysia as of 2023.
Nor Hisham said older buildings are generally located along busy or narrow stretches, which can make it difficult for firefighters to access them.
“This can also make it difficult to bring in firefighting equipment,” he said.
Among the immediate measures taken to mitigate heritage building fires was the formation of a task force committee comprising Fire and Rescue Department officers, architects, and consultants from the Malaysian Institute of Architects, he said.
“The aim is to conduct in-depth studies on the designs of heritage buildings and present recommendations for the installation of fire safety infrastructure, if needed.
“This is also among the department’s initiatives aimed at drafting guidelines and regulations related to heritage buildings,” he said.
The Electrical and Electronics Association of Malaysia (TEEAM) said proper wiring is one of the most critical fire safety factors in Malaysia’s heritage and pre-war buildings, warranting urgent attention to prevent further tragedies.
Citing the Energy Commission regulations, it said comprehensive electrical inspection and testing should be conducted every five years for commercial buildings and every 10 years for residential buildings.
“We also propose that inspections include insulation and earth resistance tests. The wiring should be changed immediately if it fails the inspection. Earthing chambers should also be installed if needed,” it said.
It also proposed that a Residual Current Circuit Breaker Self-Test be conducted monthly or at least once every three months.
“We need a balanced approach which focuses on preservation and modern safety requirements.
“While maintaining the historical and architectural value of such buildings is important, public safety must remain the highest priority,” said TEEAM.
It said many older buildings were constructed when electricity demand was significantly lower.
“The original wiring was also not designed for modern electrical loads and over decades, the insulation can become brittle and crack.
“Connections can also loosen, leading to overheating and short circuits,” it added.
It also said heritage and pre-war buildings are typically constructed with large amounts of timber for flooring, walls and roof structures.
“An electrical spark can quickly ignite the building’s fabric, causing a fire to spread swiftly,” it added.
Malaysian Federation for Occupational Safety and Health chairman Dr Abu Hasan Samad said frequent electricity trips or lights continuously dimming over time are among the possible signs of faults within a wiring system.
“This could indicate that something is not right, and attention should be given right away,” he said, adding that it is advisable to at least perform an annual check to make sure the systems are in order.
Abu Hasan also said this applies to home and building owners of relatively newer establishments instead of solely heritage buildings.
“For those unsure of how to go about inspections, please consult a qualified and licensed electrician,” he said.
