TAWAU: The Federal Government, through the Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT), is urged to give serious attention to the proposal for the construction of a new Fire and Rescue Station in the Apas-Balung area.
Youth Development, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan said the project had been planned in a previous Malaysia Plan (RMK); however, its implementation has yet to be realised.
He stressed that the proposal should now be considered a priority, given the rapid development of the area, which has seen an increase in housing, business premises, and both government and private offices over recent years.
According to Nizam, the construction of a new Fire and Rescue Station is expected to ensure faster emergency response times, particularly for fires, road accidents, and other disasters, as the distance from the existing Tawau town centre station is considerable, causing delays in reaching emergency locations in Apas-Balung and surrounding areas.
He said safety measures must keep pace with rapid development through the provision of proper infrastructure to protect lives and property while ensuring the community’s wellbeing.
Nizam, who is also Apas Assemblyman, made the statement after visiting 12 traders who were victims of a fire that destroyed 18 roadside stalls at Mile 15, Jalan Apas, on Monday.
He presented contributions of cash and food baskets in conjunction with the month of Ramadan as moral support to those affected by the incident on Feb 11, which occurred while he was travelling to the Holy Land to perform Umrah.
“Immediately upon receiving news of the incident, I instructed officers from the Apas Community Development Unit (PPM) to go to the site to provide immediate assistance alongside the Tawau District Disaster Management Committee.
Today, I am here in person to present a modest contribution of cash and essential items for Ramadan to the victims. It is hoped that this assistance will lighten their burden,” he said.
Nizam also said discussions have been held with the Lands and Surveys Department (JTU) and the Public Works Department (JKR) to examine the positioning of stalls near the road line.
“We want to find a better solution to ensure that structural and safety issues are addressed so that similar incidents do not recur,” he said.
He further advised residents and traders, especially those in high-risk areas, to ensure that any structures built receive approval from the local authority (PBT).
He added that electrical wiring, as well as the use of gas and cooking appliances, must always prioritise safety, whether at home or in business premises.
