PETALING JAYA: Home fire incidents related to unsafe device charging habits has resulted in approximately RM14,201,881 in losses across 59 cases from 2023 to 2025, according to data from the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM).
Of the 10 states with recorded incidents, "Sarawak recorded the highest in losses with approximately RM9,707,956 from 11 cases, followed by Kelantan with RM 1,147,400 (17) and Sabah with RM806,800 (three)," JBPM said in a statement to StarLifestyle.
The other states are Selangor with losses amounting to RM661,040 (five), Penang with RM537,125 (nine), Johor with RM470,000 (two), Putrajaya with RM387,000 (one), Melaka RM214,810 (four), Terengganu RM175,000 (two) and Perak RM95,750 (five).
"No cases were recorded in Kedah, Negri Sembilan, Pahang, Perlis, Kuala Lumpur and Labuan and no casualties were reported in the three year period," it added.
The department said each fire incident has its own unique challenges and cannot be assessed solely on the size of the fire or amount of losses incurred.
"Every case requires a meticulous and systematic approach, as the complexity of an investigation varies depending on factors such as the location of the incident, the type of device involved, the extent of damage to physical evidence, safety risks at the scene, and the technical information that needs to be analysed."
JBPM added that the most challenging cases are not necessarily the largest in terms of losses or blaze, but those that require extensive technical analysis, rigorous risk management and the ability to draw accurate conclusions from physical evidence that may be limited, damaged or destroyed by the fire.
In a June 8 report by StarLifestyle, experts including The Electrical and Electronics Association of Malaysia (TEEAM) highlighted the need for more users in Malaysia to be aware of safe device charging practices.
Based on its investigation, JBPM said some of the most common unsafe charging practices that it has identified include leaving devices to charge overnight without supervision, using uncertified chargers or cables, and charging devices on or near combustible materials such as mattresses, pillows, sofas or blankets.
"In addition, overloading power strips and using devices that show signs of damage, such as swollen batteries, overheating, a burning smell, or damaged cables, also increase the risk of fire," it added.
Members of the public are reminded to take safety precautions when charging their devices. JBPM recommended avoiding charging devices on soft surfaces and replacing damaged sockets, cables or adaptors.
According to the department, public awareness on fire risks associated with device charging still needs to be improved.
“Some users continue to prioritise cheaper chargers, cables or electrical accessories over safety and product quality. This practice increases the likelihood of using equipment that does not meet safety standards, which may in turn lead to overheating, short circuits or fire.”
Users are advised to use charging equipment with SIRIM certification and other valid safety approvals.
JBPM added that it will continue to support public awareness efforts through fire safety education, preventive outreach and strategic cooperation with relevant agencies to ensure the public remains more conscious of safe charging practices.
