‘Civil servants have no clue Komtar has no FC’
GEORGE TOWN: Many of the civil servants working at Komtar here have no idea that Penang’s tallest building does not have a Fire Certificate (FC).
Imran Hilmy, special officer to state Health Committee chairman Dr Afif Bahardin, said he was shocked to learn about the matter through an exclusive report by the New Straits Times Press yesterday.
He said Komtar’s management was now under PDC Setia Urus (PDCSU), and as such, the state government should formulate an action plan to address the matter.
“I am shocked to learn that Komtar has failed to obtain the FC.
“This is worrying, especially if something untoward happens in the building, as many civil servants work here and people come here daily.
“This situation puts the lives of all at risk and it is dangerous.”
The NSTP, in its report yesterday, revealed that 27 premises in the state had failed to obtain the FC from the Fire and Rescue Department as they failed to meet safety standards for buildings.
The premises included Komtar, the state administrative building and Penang Hospital, all located here.
Hermy Izwan Saidin, another special officer to the same state executive councillor, said it was worthwhile to take insurance coverage after knowing the truth.
“Thankfully, I have personal insurance coverage, especially if anything happens. I hope this issue will be addressed as it can affect the state.”
Zyen Faiezane, special officer to state Public Works, Utilities and Flood Mitigation Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari, said she hoped the safety of civil servants and visitors to Komtar could be guaranteed.
“This issue can’t just be swept under the carpet. Something needs to be done.”