Strategic Collaboration for Supertall Buildings in Kuala Lumpur
The Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has taken a significant step towards ensuring the safety of the country’s tallest buildings by forming a joint council with six of the most prominent supertall buildings in Kuala Lumpur. This strategic collaboration aims to share expertise on safety and fire issues, ensuring that these structures meet the ‘critical’ criteria for emergency evacuations.
Unlocking Emergency Lift Operations
According to JBPM’s Director-General, Datuk Nor Hisham Mohammad, one of the key areas of focus is enabling certified operators to manage emergency lifts. Currently, few people have the power and responsibility to operate the lifts during emergencies. He emphasized the importance of this issue, stating, "Imagine people with disabilities are on the upper floors, during an emergency…this is one of the main challenges."
A Joint Council of Supertall Buildings
In December last year, JBPM signed a letter of intent with six entities, including Menara Merdeka 118, Menara Exchange 106, Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur Tower, Four Seasons Place Kuala Lumpur, and Menara Telekom. This council aims to share knowledge and expertise to ensure the safety of occupants in these structures.
Malaysia’s Supertall Buildings Landscape
Malaysia has a significant number of tall buildings, with 366 structures exceeding 150 meters, 67 exceeding 200 meters, and six exceeding 300 meters. By focusing on the safety and fire issues in these buildings, JBPM hopes to lead to significant improvements in emergencies or fires at these locations.
Conclusion
The collaboration between JBPM and the six supertall buildings in Kuala Lumpur is a crucial step towards ensuring the safety of occupants in these structures. By sharing expertise and knowledge, this joint council aims to address critical issues, such as emergency lift operations, to ensure that occupants can evacuate safely in the event of an emergency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of the joint council of supertall buildings?
A: The council aims to share expertise on safety and fire issues, ensuring that the structures meet the ‘critical’ criteria for emergency evacuations.
Q: What are the key areas of focus for the council?
A: Enabling certified operators to manage emergency lifts and addressing other critical issues.
Q: How many tall buildings are there in Malaysia?
A: Malaysia has 366 structures exceeding 150 meters, 67 exceeding 200 meters, and six exceeding 300 meters.
Q: What is the goal of the knowledge imparted to trained lift operators?
A: The goal is for significant improvements in emergencies or fires at these buildings.