JOHOR BAHRU, Aug 7 — Full enforcement on premises required to obtain a Fire Certificate (FC) will begin in the first quarter of 2026, says Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) deputy director-general (operations) Datuk Ahmad Izram Othman.
He stressed that premises failing to comply after the enforcement date could face legal action.
"Premises that still fail to obtain the FC after full enforcement may be fined up to RM50,000, or face five years’ imprisonment, or both," Izram told the press after officiating the Johor-level Fire Safety Organisation (OKK) Seminar today.
Also present were Johor JBPM director Siti Rohani Nadir and State Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor.
The move is part of the government’s effort to tighten fire safety aspects for Designated Premises, which include nine categories: libraries, hospitals and care centres, hotels, hostels and dormitories, offices, shops, factories, places of assembly, and storage facilities.
To date, 9,321 premises nationwide have been classified as premises required to obtain the FC, with 5,881 already holding the certificate.
Johor recorded the highest number, with 2,288 premises categorised as Designated Premises that must have the FC, which must be renewed annually.
"Johor has shown significant growth due to many new developments. All premises that receive the Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC) from the local authorities must register for the FC," he said.
Izram added that 2025 will serve as a year of education and awareness, including seminars and training sessions for premises owners.
JBPM has also introduced a self-regulation concept through the establishment of OKKs at all Designated Premises, which must have one Fire Safety Manager and three Fire Safety Officers.
"These individuals will be trained by JBPM starting at the end of this year, so they are ready to fulfil their responsibilities before enforcement begins next year.
"Failure by premises to establish the OKK will indirectly result in the FC not being issued," he said.
