Malaysia records 2,001 factory fires, RM4.21b losses since 2020, says Fire Dept D-G

Malaysia has witnessed a staggering 2,001 factory fires since 2020, resulting in a staggering RM4.21 billion in losses. This alarming trend has left many wondering how such a catastrophic situation can be allowed to persist in the country. The sheer scale of these industrial blazes is a stark reminder of the need for drastic measures to prevent such disasters from occurring in the future.

Background & Context

The issue of industrial fires is not new to Malaysia. However, the recent surge in factory fires has raised concerns among government agencies, industry experts, and the general public. The Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has been at the forefront of efforts to mitigate this problem, working tirelessly to strengthen fire safety enforcement and education initiatives. The JBPM's director-general, Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad, has been a vocal advocate for greater awareness and compliance with fire safety regulations.

Malaysia's industrial sector is a significant contributor to the country's economy, with many multinational corporations (MNCs) having a presence in the country. The sector's growth has been driven by the government's efforts to attract foreign investment and create jobs. However, this growth has also led to increased concerns about worker safety and environmental sustainability. The JBPM's efforts to strengthen fire safety enforcement are a critical step towards addressing these concerns and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industrial sector.

Key Details

According to the JBPM, a total of 2,001 factory fire cases have been recorded since 2020, resulting in losses of RM4.21 billion. This figure is a stark reminder of the need for greater vigilance and compliance with fire safety regulations. In 2025, the JBPM carried out a total of 1,878 factory premises inspections, a significant increase from the 1,563 premises inspected in the previous year. During the same period, the number of premises issued with Fire Hazard Elimination Notices (MBK) increased from 706 premises in 2024 to 1,191 premises in 2025.

For the first six months of this year, the JBPM carried out 945 factory premises inspections, issuing 637 MBK notices. The results of the inspection also identified 426 fire hazard cases, while 16 premises were found to have failed to comply with the issued notices. The JBPM's efforts to strengthen fire safety enforcement are a critical step towards reducing the risk of industrial fires and protecting the lives and property of workers and the general public.

What Experts Say

The JBPM's director-general, Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad, has emphasized the importance of fire safety in industrial premises. He noted that fire safety is no longer just a matter of legal compliance, but has become an important factor in ensuring worker safety, the continuity of industrial operations, and the stability of the national economy. The JBPM's efforts to strengthen fire safety enforcement and education initiatives are a critical step towards addressing these concerns and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industrial sector.

Experts in the field have also highlighted the need for greater awareness and education among industry players about the importance of fire safety. They have emphasized the need for the government to provide greater support and resources to the JBPM to enable it to carry out its mandate effectively. The JBPM's efforts to implement the Swimming Literacy Programme nationwide are a positive development, with a total of 10,542 participants having been successfully trained so far. This achievement is a significant step towards reducing the risk of drowning deaths and promoting water safety awareness among the public.

Key Takeaways

• The JBPM has recorded a total of 2,001 factory fire cases since 2020, resulting in losses of RM4.21 billion.
• The JBPM carried out 1,878 factory premises inspections in 2025, a significant increase from the 1,563 premises inspected in the previous year.
• The number of premises issued with Fire Hazard Elimination Notices (MBK) increased from 706 premises in 2024 to 1,191 premises in 2025.
• The JBPM's efforts to strengthen fire safety enforcement and education initiatives are critical steps towards reducing the risk of industrial fires and protecting the lives and property of workers and the general public.

What This Means For You

The industrial fire epidemic in Malaysia has significant implications for the general public. The JBPM's efforts to strengthen fire safety enforcement and education initiatives are a critical step towards reducing the risk of industrial fires and protecting the lives and property of workers and the general public. As a consumer, you have the right to expect that the products you purchase are made in a safe and responsible manner. By supporting companies that prioritize fire safety and worker welfare, you can help promote a safer and more sustainable industrial sector.

As a concerned citizen, you can also play a role in promoting fire safety awareness and education among industry players. By sharing information and resources with your network, you can help create a culture of safety and responsibility within the industrial sector. Together, we can work towards creating a safer and more sustainable future for all Malaysians.