Serian: Authorities should look beyond population density when planning public safety infrastructure and must also consider geographical spread, accessibility, and risk exposure, particularly in rural areas, said DAP Serian Committee Member Brolin Nicholson.
Highlighted the challenges faced by villages in the Tebedu area, including Kampung Daha, Engkoroh, and Rimangan, which are located far from the nearest fire and rescue facilities, Brolin said that in cases of fire emergencies, road accidents, floods, or other disasters, the time taken for responders to arrive can be significantly prolonged due to distance and road conditions.
“Currently, the Fire and Rescue Department in Serian is tasked with covering a vast geographical area stretching from Serian town to some parts of Siburan and Balai Ringin.
“This coverage area is extensive, and in emergencies, response time is critical. Every additional kilometre travelled may mean the difference between containment and catastrophe,” he said in a statement.
His call comes amid remarks by Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, who recently said a Tebedu fire station is not an urgent need.
Brolin, who is also Special Assistant to Bandar Kuching MP Kelvin Yii, said that while he respects the views expressed, he wishes to offer a differing perspective based on the practical needs of the communities in Serian and its surrounding areas, as someone from Serian.
“A fire station closer to these villages would provide reassurance, security, and potentially save lives and property.
“Rural communities deserve equal protection and timely emergency response,” he said.
He added that establishing a fire and rescue station in Tebedu is not a matter of redundancy but of necessity.
“It would improve emergency response time to nearby kampungs, enhance public safety for rural communities, provide faster assistance during cross-border incidents and highway emergencies, and strengthen overall disaster preparedness in the Serian division,” he said.
