by Datu Khirudin Drahman
I recently had the privilege of officiating at Tadika dan
Taska Permai Goodland’s graduation ceremony at the
Borneo Cultures Museum in Kuching.
What unfolded before my eyes was nothing short of
awe-inspiring. The stage was graced by young
Sarawakian boys and girls, many of whom faced the
challenges of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) but shone
through their performances with unwavering
determination.
Their exceptional talents, nurtured through persistent
and dedicated education, shattered preconceived
notions, and soared beyond expectations.
The event stood as a testament to the relentless
commitment of their principal and teachers, which
evoked profound respect and admiration.
As I stood there, enveloped in the palpable aura of
triumph, I could not help but marvel at the incredible
feats achievable when met with the right mindset and a
positive attitude.
The ceremony became more than just a celebration, it
transformed into a powerful reminder of the boundless
potential residing within our community.
It implored us to unite our strengths, confront
challenges, and mold them into opportunities for growth
and learning.
My contemplation after the event revolved around the
idea of embedding fire safety into the very fabric of our
lives, making it an integral part of our national culture.
Picture a society where every individual comprehends
the perils of fire, where education stands as the bedrock
for instilling this awareness, and where everyone
actively participates in preventing and combating fires.
Education emerges as the cornerstone in shaping our
understanding of fire and its associated risks.
It equips individuals with the knowledge, mental
resilience, and skills necessary to navigate emergency
situations effectively.
Armed with the right information and a positive
response, people can not only safeguard themselves but
also extend a helping hand to rescue others.
This underscores the critical role of comprehensive fire
safety education in our lives.
To realise this vision, we must cultivate champions
within our community — individuals driven by a passion
for learning and promoting total fire safety.
Bomba Sarawak or the Sarawak State Fire and Rescue
Department stands committed to delivering exceptional
services while empowering people to become
champions during emergencies, whether they be fires or
other disasters.
The challenge lies in altering the prevailing mindset,
where many still rely solely on emergency services.
The initial minutes of any incident are paramount, and
informed, swift action can prevent situations from
spiralling out of control.
Addressing unsafe attitudes, behaviours, and conditions
(ABC) that put individuals at risk is of utmost
importance.
Transforming these mindsets necessitates a collective
effort, primarily through education that raises awareness
and imparts knowledge.
Reflecting on the kindergarten graduation ceremony, it
became apparent how vital it is to instill positive habits
and noble values from young.
Children represent our hopes as future leaders,
entrusted with the responsibility of steering our nation
toward progress and prosperity.
Bomba Sarawak’s introduction of initiatives like Kelab
3K (Kelab Keselamatan Kanak-Kanak) and the
comprehensive six-module fun learning programme
signifies a significant leap toward cultivating a fire-
resistant and resilient community.
Through our engaging activities, children learn about
essential fire safety precautions, prevention techniques,
and protection methods, including the iconic ‘stop, drop,
and roll’.
They also practise planning escape routes at home,
fostering a culture of preparedness and vigilance.
Drawing upon my 35 years of service, I firmly advocate
the adoption of a national policy that ingrains safety
awareness into our national culture.
With the guidance of Malaysia Madani’s six pillars,
Sarawak Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS)
2030, and Bomba’s National Fire and Rescue Policy
2021-2030, we do necessarily possess the tools to
transform this vision into reality.
It should be a collective endeavour — an effort that
encompasses every individual, including you, me, and
all of us.
Together, we can spark this fire safety revolution,
ensuring a safer, resilient, and empowered community
for generations to come.
Let us unite and make it happen, embracing the promise
of a brighter, secure tomorrow for Malaysians and our
beloved country.