KUANTAN: Government agency personnel who have been busy round the clock fighting the forest fires at Inderapura Jaya here had a pleasant surprise yesterday.
The Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah dropped by to inspect the operations before breaking fast and performing Maghrib prayers with those on duty.
The ruler, who drove himself to the Fire and Rescue Department's control post at Inderapura Jaya about 7pm, was briefed on the forest fires along Jalan Kuantan-Pekan.
Al-Sultan Abdullah reminded all personnel — firefighters, soldiers, Civil Defence Forces members as well as staff from the Drainage and Irrigation Department and Department of Environment — to always prioritise their safety while putting out the flames.
He also expressed his gratitude for their tireless efforts, especially with Hari Raya Aidilfitri fast approaching.
Accompanying Al-Sultan Abdullah on the visit was Tengku Mahkota of Pahang Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah Al-Sultan Abdullah.
Also present was Pahang Fire and Rescue Department director Datuk Dr Wan Mohammad Zaidi Wan Isa.
The ruler distributed dates to those on duty before breaking fast with them at the control post. He later performed Maghrib prayers with them and attended a photo session before leaving.
The prolonged dry season has triggered wildfires in the state capital here since last week, engulfing peatland, bushes and plantations.