Sarawak: A total of 234 Community Fire Brigades have been established throughout Sarawak since 2021 to strengthen the preparedness of the people in facing fires. Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) director Jamri Masran said this initiative involved a total of 2,981 members, including 1,419 members from 98 teams based in longhouses, a key factor on the risk of fires breaking out in remote locations.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the community's involvement is very encouraging and proves that awareness of safety is increasing, especially among rural communities. Jamri Masran emphasized this point while closing the Gawai Dayak 2025 Festival Season Safety Campaign at the Pitre Abit Tayup Longhouse in Skim Bintangor. He noted that the establishment of these community fire brigades would not only enhance the community's ability to deal with fires early but also strengthen cooperation between JBPM and the local communities.

The role of Community Fire Brigades has become increasingly important ahead of the Gawai Dayak festival season, which usually sees an increase in the risk of fires breaking out due to excessive use of electricity, open stoves, and uncontrolled burning. Jamri highlighted that longhouses, while being the cultural heritage of the Dayak community and a symbol of unity, have flammable wooden structures making them vulnerable to fire hazards. The presence of a trained community fire brigade enables quicker and more efficient responses in emergency situations.

The Gawai safety campaign aims to increase community awareness of fire safety aspects and promote a culture of prevention among longhouse residents. Activities carried out during the campaign include firefighting demonstrations, awareness talks, and training to deal with emergency situations. Jamri added that the knowledge and fire-fighting skills acquired through this program serve as a useful guide for all longhouse residents, not only during the festive season but in everyday routines.