Malaysia should consider implementing a mandatory requirement for fire extinguishers in all private vehicles to mitigate the risk of rapidly escalating car fires. Former Kebun Bunga assemblyman Jason Ong proposed the safety measure, noting that early containment is critical in preventing minor vehicular faults from turning into fatal disasters. He highlighted that such a policy would mirror successful public safety commitments seen in other nations, specifically citing South Korea’s recent legislative shift toward enhanced emergency preparedness for motorists.
The proposal follows a similar mandate introduced in South Korea in December 2024, which requires fire extinguishers in passenger vehicles with five or more seats, as well as buses and lorries. Ong suggested that the Malaysian Transport Ministry should study this international model to bolster local road safety standards. He pointed out that vehicle fires often occur without warning, triggered by unpredictable factors such as electrical malfunctions, engine overheating, fuel leaks, or high-impact road collisions.
To make the requirement enforceable, Ong recommended potential amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987 or the introduction of new regulations by the Road Transport Department (JPJ). He argued that the cost of a portable fire extinguisher is relatively modest compared to its substantial potential to save lives and protect property. By making these devices compulsory, the government would significantly strengthen the immediate emergency response capabilities of everyday drivers before professional help arrives.
Data from the Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) underscores the urgency of the issue, with 3,592 emergency calls involving vehicle fires recorded in 2023 alone. These incidents resulted in 52 deaths and 148 injuries, highlighting a persistent threat to road users nationwide. While electric vehicle (EV) fires remained low in 2024 with only four reported cases, Ong noted that these incidents pose unique challenges, such as battery thermal runaway, which requires specific fire suppression strategies due to toxic fumes and prolonged burning times.
Adopting these preventive measures would demonstrate a clear commitment by the government to protecting motorists and passengers across Malaysia. Ong concluded that proactive legislation is necessary to keep pace with evolving automotive risks and the increasing complexity of vehicle fires. By integrating fire safety tools into standard vehicle equipment, Malaysia can foster a more resilient road safety culture that prioritises the well-being and security of all citizens.
