Curtin Malaysia joins key landowners in strengthening Miri’s emergency response framework

Miri, Sarawak – 11 April 2026 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) has reinforced its commitment to environmental protection and public safety by signing the Miri Open Burning Emergency Mutual Aid (MOBEMA) Manual, a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening coordinated emergency response to open burning incidents in the region.

The signing ceremony, held at a leading hotel in Miri, brought together major landowners and government agencies in a unified effort to enhance preparedness and safeguard environmentally sensitive areas as Miri continues to grow as a key urban and industrial hub.

Curtin Malaysia was among several prominent stakeholders involved, including Shin Yang Sdn Bhd’s Linau Mewah Sdn Bhd, Melinau Transport Sdn Bhd, Naim Land Sdn Bhd, Permy Development Sdn Bhd, Pantai Bayu Indah Sdn Bhd, Miri Housing Development Realty Sdn Bhd, Woodman Kuala Baram Estate Sdn Bhd, and Imasa Dinasti Sdn Bhd.

The university was represented by its Chief Operating Officer, Sharon Chong, while the ceremony was witnessed by Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin. Also in attendance were Jamri Masran, State Director of the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (BOMBA), Melissa Labut from the Miri Resident’s Office, and Ismaidi Ismail, Chief of BOMBA Miri Zone 6.

Launched by the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department and BOMBA Miri, the MOBEMA initiative promotes voluntary collaboration between landowners and emergency services to respond more effectively to open burning incidents. It focuses on coordinated deployment of manpower and resources, improved communication, and joint fire safety exercises.

In his address, Dato Sri Lee highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration in ensuring Miri’s sustainable development.

“This initiative represents a voluntary collaboration between landowners and government emergency services aimed at addressing open burning incidents in the Miri area. It focuses on promoting mutual emergency assistance, coordinating the effective use of manpower and logistics, and conducting joint fire safety exercises,” he stated.

He emphasised that effective emergency response depends on seamless coordination across multiple areas, including logistics, firefighting assets, communication systems, site accessibility, and technical expertise.

“The MOBEMA Manual will serve as a critical framework to enhance operational readiness, define roles clearly, and strengthen coordination during emergencies,” he added.

Dato Sri Lee further stressed that as Miri evolves into the northern gateway of Sarawak, equal priority must be given to resilience and sustainability.

“The safety of our communities and the protection of our environment must always go hand in hand with development,” he said.

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Sharon Chong (front left) signing the MOBEMA Manual, witnessed by Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin (front right), Jamri Masran, and other signatories.

Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin (7th left), Jamri Masran (6th right), Sharon Chong (left), and fellow signatories displaying the signed MOBEMA Manual.