Among the equipment sought are: inflatable boats, all-terrain vehicles, military modular tents, sleeping bags, tactical hydration backpacks, fire-resistant suits, and battery-powered LED lights.

Standby rooms at 150 fire and rescue stations across the country are to be improved, and the Volunteer Fire Brigade strengthened, said local government development minister Nga Kor Ming.

He said all fire and rescue stations were in a state of readiness for emergencies during the Chinese New Year festive period. Patrols will be carried out in areas identified as fire-prone hotspots, and sites of drownings, especially in recreational areas.

Nga said a total of 26,561 fire distress calls were received in 2022, a drop from 35,902 the previous year. The fires caused losses amounting to RM1.32 billion, he said.