IPOH: Medals, certificates, gifts, words and commendation letters are not enough to honour the firefighters for their contribution to the nation, said Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah today.
In his speech during the national-level World Firefighters Day today, he said more should be done to show our appreciation to the firefighters and that celebrations held should not be limited to just parades, exhibitions or cultural performances.
He pointed out that events to honour the firefighters should be more meaningful and filled with spiritual elements - characterised by knowledge, able to increase society and national appreciation, and can provide meaningful impact to the service.
Sultan Nazrin presented five suggestions that can be applied to appreciate the firefighters' efforts and sacrifices.
"First, organise training programme and operation procedure that can enhance their professionalism level of the firefighters.
"Secondly, identify the latest equipment needed to face current scenarios to ensure effectiveness in the services
"Thirdly, evaluate operational procedure and equipment to minimise the risk factor for firefighters on duty.
"Forth, draft a service and charity package, not just for those who are still serving but most importantly officers who have retired, proportionate with the level of their sacrifices, burden of responsibilities and risk faced.
"And finally, increase the nation and society's awareness on the sacrifices made by firefighters so that the country and society will have better appreciation of them," he said.
Also present at the event were Sultan Nazrin's consort Tuanku Zara Salim, Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, Urban Wellbeing, Housing and Local Government Minister Tan Sri Noh Omar and Fire and Rescue Department director-general Datuk Wan Mohd Nor Ibrahim.