KUCHING: The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) has welcomed a new initiative by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) and the Public Service Department (PSD) granting weekly rest days to firefighters on 12-hour or 24-hour shifts.
Effective Feb 1, the revamped shift system will allow firefighters to enjoy a minimum of 26 weekly rest days per year, in line with guidelines from the Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA).
Sarawak Bomba director Jamri Masan said that this move aims to give more rest to the firefighters for their tireless efforts.
“This change ensures the sustainability and continuity of public service in Sarawak.
“Under the SSPA, civil servants are typically required to work 45 hours per week. However, firefighters, due to their shift patterns, often exceed this by working 56 hours a week—11 hours above the SSPA standard.
“As such, the department cannot replace these extra hours with rest days or pay. But now, firefighters are eligible for the new weekly rest days,” he said after officiating the Sarawak Bomba annual parade and rank insignia ceremony at their headquarters this morning (Jan 28).
He revealed that based on calculations, a firefighter’s shift schedule amounts to 243 cycles per year. After eight cycles of shifts, firefighters will be entitled to one weekly rest day on the ninth cycle.
During the event, Jamri delivered the Bomba Director-General’s address and witnessed the signing of the Accountability and Integrity Pledge by Sarawak Bomba head of divisions.
Aside from that, he and his assistant directors Henderi Ardimansyah and Alimuddia Bukri officiated the promotions of 26 officers to the ranks of Senior Fire Officer 1 and Senior Fire Officer 2.
