'Red Warriors' important component of Malaysian Family - Reezal Merican

He said the International Firefighters' Day was an important date to remember to appreciate the sacrifices and services of firefighters around the world.

"In every moment and situation, they are the first group to arrive to provide assistance with a full sense of willingness and putting their self-interest aside in order to save the lives of others.

"Just look at the floods that happened at the end of last year. They remained at the disaster site even though their own homes were flooded," he said in his speech at the 2022 International Firefighters' Day celebration at the compound of the Millenium Hall here today.

It was launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

On this year's theme, 'Bomba Frontliner Keluarga Malaysia', Reezal Merican said it was symbolic of the commitment of more than 13,000 permanent firefighters at 327 fire stations as well as more than 2,000 auxiliary firefighters and more than 13,000 volunteer firefighters nationwide.

"The ministry will always give a high commitment to strengthen the capacity and capability of the fire brigade in terms of policies, assets and machinery as well as the welfare of the 'Red Warriors'," he said.