HONOUR OUR FIREMEN’
firefighters should be more meaningful and filled with spiritual elements, including knowledge to increase society’s and nation’s appreciation and giving meaningful impact to the service.
Sultan Nazrin said there were two keywords for the celebration — appreciate and respect.
Sultan Nazrin gave five suggestions on how to appreciate the firefighters’ sacrifices.
“Firstly, organise training programmes and operational procedures that enhance the firefighters’ professionalism. Secondly, identify the latest equipment needed to tackle current scenarios to ensure the effectiveness of the fire department.
“Thirdly, evaluate operational procedures and equipment to minimise the risk faced by firefighters.
“Fourthly, draft a service and charity package, not just for those who are serving, but most importantly, officers who have retired, commensurating with their sacrifices, responsibilities and risks.
“And finally, increase the nation’s awareness of the sacrifices made by firefighters so that the public will have a better appreciation of them.”
Sultan Nazrin said he had witnessed teams of firemen carrying out rescue operations in Perak and he valued their commitment and dedication.
“When performing their duty, the firemen are willing to sacrifice and observe human values, carrying out their job selflessly to save life and property,” he said.
“As such, it is important to celebrate the World Firefighters Day, which was instituted following a tragedy which killed five firefighters in Linton, Australia in 1998. May 4 was chosen as a day to honour Saint Florian, one of the earliest firefighters in medieval Rome.
“In the long history of firefighting, thousands more are suffering from multiple injuries and illnesses after their retirement, and the medical costs incurred as a result of firemen risking their life and limb,” he said.
Sultan Nazrin said the dedication shown by the firefighters was indeed a fardu kifayah (collective obligation) and he hoped the firemen’s families and relatives would receive God’s blessings.