The Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM) is strengthening its operational assets as part of its preparations to face the expected hot weather and the impact of the Super El Nino phenomenon forecast to begin in November.
JBPM director-general Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad said the department is accelerating the deployment of key operational equipment, including fire engine pumps and four-wheel-drive light utility vehicles, to improve emergency response capabilities.
He said JBPM has already received 80 fire engine pumps, with another 40 units expected to be delivered by the end of this month to further enhance the department’s readiness.
In addition, the department has acquired 200 light operational utility vehicles that will serve as first responders to small-scale forest fires by conducting initial assessments, opening access routes and extinguishing fires whenever possible before larger teams arrive.
Nor Hisham said the additional assets would significantly improve the department’s mobility and operational efficiency, particularly during the Southwest Monsoon when the risk of forest fires is higher.
He explained that JBPM’s main concern is the anticipated impact of the Super El Nino phenomenon over the Pacific, which is expected to develop towards the end of November 2026.
According to him, the effects are likely to be felt from the end of January 2027, especially in northern Peninsular Malaysia, with prolonged dry weather increasing the risk of wildfires.
Despite preparing for the Super El Nino, he stressed that JBPM would continue maintaining full operational readiness throughout the Southwest Monsoon period.
Nor Hisham also urged the public to avoid open burning, warning that even small fires could spread rapidly under dry conditions and become difficult to control.
He advised members of the public to immediately alert the department upon spotting any fire so firefighters can respond quickly before it escalates into a larger forest fire.
Nor Hisham was speaking to reporters after officiating the Fire and Rescue Sports Games (SUKBOM) 2026, which features 11 events involving 1,384 participants and will also serve as the selection platform for JBPM’s contingent to the 2027 World Police and Fire Games in Perth, Australia.
