KEPALA BATAS, Nov 18 — The government, via the Local Government Development Ministry (KPKT), has approved RM57.695 million to develop the Fire and Rescue Department's (JBPM) facilities and infrastructure, as well as strengthen its Air Division.
Deputy Local Government Development Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said the allocation is part of the Development Expenditure (DE) under the Fourth Rolling Plan (RP4) of the 12th Malaysia Plan (RMK12) for the year 2024.
Of the amount, RM10 million is for the continuation of the construction project of the Subang Air Base office, involving administrative buildings, hangars, logistics sectors, engineering workshops, a heliport, aircraft fuelling stations, and other facilities.
"RM1.2 million is allocated for the continuation of a project for acquiring special equipment for helicopter rescue, involving ten parachute units and one set of Underslung Tactical Rescue Platform, while the remaining RM46.495 million is for the physical maintenance projects of helicopters and aircraft refuelling.
"KPKT always takes into account the development of facilities and related infrastructure; hence, these improvements are expected to enhance JBPM's Air Division and Air Bases' functions and essential roles," he said.
Akmal was speaking at the opening ceremony of JBPM’s Northern Region Air Base and the celebration of the 25th anniversary of its Air Division at the Bertam Northern Region Air Base today.
Penang Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak officiated the opening ceremony. Also present was JBPM director-general Datuk Seri Abdul Wahab Mat Yasin.
In addition to infrastructure construction, KPKT is also in the process of acquiring four new helicopters, two for the Emergency Medical Air Rescue Services (EMARS) and the other two as replacements for the department's use.
However, this is still in the process of a cost-and-benefit analysis before further action is taken.
Meanwhile, Abdul Wahab said the Bertam Air Base is now known as the Northern Region Air Base. It was built on a 40-acre site and cost RM30.5 million.
The base, completed in 2009, is equipped with a hangar building consisting of administrative and flight operations spaces, air unit operation facility spaces, aircraft hangars, aircraft engineering management spaces, Multiskills Team (Must) management spaces, and other facilities.
— Bernama
