Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department Prepares for Nuclear Power Plant Deployment

Strategic Insights -

The Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) is gearing up to face potential challenges arising from the planned construction of a nuclear power plant in the country. The department's Director-General, Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad, emphasized the importance of close collaboration with relevant agencies to ensure the compilation of a comprehensive contingency plan. Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof noted that proximity to water sources is a crucial consideration in the feasibility study for the nuclear plant's cooling system.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has 17 Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) Response Teams with a total of 429 personnel nationwide, providing basic training in radioactive exposure.
  • JBPM Director-General Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad emphasized the need for monitoring equipment such as dosimeters and detection devices to be provided to fire stations in the vicinity of the nuclear plant.
  • Nor Hisham stated that the internal safety of the reactor would depend on the site plan and the final design of the plant.
  • The JBPM will work closely with relevant agencies to compile a comprehensive contingency plan for potential nuclear power plant emergencies.
  • Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof noted that the government is exploring nuclear power projects in Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah due to high demand for stable energy supply.
  • Fadillah highlighted that proximity to water sources, such as rivers, the sea, or large lakes, is a key consideration in the feasibility study for the nuclear plant's cooling system.

Statistics:

  • 17 Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) Response Teams are established nationwide.
  • A total of 429 personnel are involved in the Hazmat Response Teams.
  • The JBPM is currently providing basic training in radioactive exposure for its personnel.

Sources:

  • BERNAMA News Agency (2025)
  • "MALAYSIAN Fire and Rescue Department Prepares for Nuclear Power Plant Deployment"