New Straits Times Online, 9 November 2012
REALISTIC EXERCISE: At Menara Taming Sari, those ‘trapped’ were brought down from the revolving tower within 20 minutes
A ‘fire victim’ being brought out on a stretcher during an emergency drill at Menara Taming Sari in Bandar Hilir, Malacca.
A ‘fire victim’ being helped out by her companions from the ‘burning’ tower. Pix by Muhammad Hatim Ab Manan.
MALACCA: TEN visitors and two employees of the Menara Taming Sari (MTS) were "trapped" some 50 metres above ground when the revolving tower came to an abrupt halt during a "blackout".
However, it all ended well following the prompt action by the MTS's emergency response team (ERT) who brought those "trapped" down from the revolving tower within 20 minutes.
The "drama" turned out to be an exercise aimed at gauging the response of the ERT in the event of an emergency.
The drill was so realistic that some onlookers, especially visitors who were planning to take a ride on the MTS, had a few anxious moments, thinking it was a real emergency.
MTS chief executive officer Nazary Ahmad, who was at the scene, was full of praise for the ERT's preparedness and prompt action in dealing with the "emergency", which included a "fire" at the administrative office.
"The ERT is part of our standard operating procedure and also a requirement by the Department of Occupational Safety and Health," he said.
"The ERT is essential in ensuring that this place is safe for the public as well as our staff."
The ERT was formed in stages since its inception two years ago, to prepare the MTS staff for quick action in case of any emergency, while waiting for help from the Fire and Rescue Department.
"Besides this, it is also part of our effort in exposing our staff to what should be done during an emergency and also exposing them to emergency equipment," said Nazary.
During security incidents and emergencies, the ERT will cooperate with the Fire Rescue Department, Police and St John Ambulance of Malaysia.
Nazary said it was compulsory for all ERT personnel to undergo first-aid training with members of St John Ambulance.
"Our ERT members not only react in cases of emergency at the tower, but also offer help if any emergency occurs in the surrounding areas," he added.
