Penang: Penang has become the first state in Malaysia to mandate the production of safety videos by the Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) as part of the hotel guest check-in process. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced that these safety videos, which will be shown during check-in and in hotel rooms, serve as a preventive measure to ensure the safety and well-being of all guests.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the state government is committed to establishing Penang as a safe and attractive destination for tourists, aiming to reinforce its position as a leading international tourism hub. Last year, Penang welcomed 8.2 million visitors, and while this growth is beneficial, it also presents challenges, particularly in terms of water safety and hotel accommodations. The introduction of safety videos is expected to bolster Penang's reputation as a secure and appealing destination.
The Hotel Guest Fire Safety Awareness Programme was launched today, with notable attendees including Penang JBPM director Mohamad Shoki Hamzah and deputy state police chief Datuk Mohd Alwi Zainal Abidin. The safety videos focus on fire safety and water rescue protocols, aiming to educate hotel guests on essential safety procedures.
Mohamad Shoki emphasized that drowning incidents have consistently been a top emergency call over the past five years, particularly at beaches and hotel pools. Despite increased awareness, some tourists continue to neglect safety measures, which is why the videos will be shown during check-in and in rooms to proactively address this risk. This initiative positions Penang as the first state in Malaysia to implement such a preventive measure.
Penang plans to lead by incorporating these safety videos into hotel safety standard operating procedures across the state. The short-term plan involves collaborating with hotel operators to ensure the consistent display of the video and training hotel staff to provide additional explanations if necessary. Mohamad Shoki noted that this initiative highlights Penang's leadership in tourism safety and could potentially be expanded to other states, establishing Penang as a national model for safe tourism.
Long-term plans include developing a mobile app for water safety, with standardized procedures for hotels across Penang.