Fire Dept To Get Three New Helicopters Next Year Minister

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The Fire and Rescue Department (FRD) is set to receive three new AgustaWestland AW139 helicopters next year, to enhance its rescue capabilities, particularly in remote areas.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said acquiring these assets is a strategic move aimed at bolstering the preparedness and operational effectiveness of the FRD.
“I hope that the helicopters can arrive this year as well, but the timeline depends on the manufacturer. We will prioritise the FRD’s needs. The AgustaWestland AW139 model has proven to be the most efficient.
“The Madani government is deeply focused on FRD’s preparedness. That’s why this year, the Housing and Local Government Ministry has allocated approximately RM220 million to continue providing new assets and acquisitions.”
Nga said this at a press conference after the launch of the Festive Season Preparedness in conjunction with the 2025 Chinese New Year - Op Siaga Raya, which was also attended by FRD director-general Nor Hisham Mohammad.
Meanwhile, Nga said property losses due to fires decreased to about RM1.56 billion last year, compared with RM2.63 billion the previous year.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor MingHe added that 2,204 fire cases were reported during the Chinese New Year celebrations last year. Nga advised all parties, including those returning to their hometowns, to take fire prevention measures before embarking on their journey.
As part of preparedness measures, the minister announced that leave for 70 percent of firefighters, roughly 12,000 personnel nationwide, had been frozen during this year’s festive period, in addition to the assistance provided by 375 volunteer firefighters.
When asked about the body mass index (BMI) readings of firefighters, he explained that FRD continues to consider BMI as the main criterion for promotions, with the maximum limit set at 30.
However, he did not rule out holding discussions with the FRD director-general, to review the new BMI level implemented by the Royal Malaysia Police, which is set at BMI 28, starting next year.
- Bernama

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