Penang will conduct a wide-ranging review of fire safety compliance for old and heritage buildings after a fire at the Odeon building on Jalan Penang killed a Myanmar construction worker last Saturday.
Mohamad Boshi Sabi Ullah, 56, died from smoke inhalation after becoming trapped inside the Odeon building, which was being renovated into a restaurant. The entertainment centre premises caught fire during renovation works.
State Local Government and Town and Country Planning Committee chairman H’ng Mooi Lye said the state government views the incident seriously and will pursue improvements based on investigation findings and technical agency feedback.
“Any proposed improvements will be studied comprehensively, taking into account safety considerations, heritage preservation and existing legal requirements,” he said.
The review will cover strengthening fire safety compliance, monitoring high-risk buildings, regulating renovation works, and increasing awareness among building owners and operators.
Both the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) and Penang Island City Council (MBPP) already work with the Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) on monitoring building usage, regulating renovations, and ensuring licensing compliance.
The MBPP said it will review the investigation findings from the Odeon fire and discuss improvement proposals with the SPEAD Committee, comprising surveyors, planners, engineers, architects, and developers, as well as other technical agencies.
The state government continues coordination with local authorities for enforcement, inspections, and repair directives as necessary.
Source: Malay Mail
