THE Penang Civil Defence Force (APM) today briefed Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow on its latest emergency response innovation, the X-CDV3 device, designed to assist rescue operations in challenging environments such as forests, hills, rivers and flood situations.
The briefing took place during a courtesy visit in Komtar, where APM personnel demonstrated the portable and user-friendly device, which combines several rescue functions into a single compact equipment system.
Penang APM deputy director Lt. Col Zico Sual said the innovation was developed to reduce operational costs while improving rescue efficiency in difficult terrains.
“We try to make it as foolproof as possible. Users can simply scan the QR code provided and follow the step-by-step instructions displayed on their phones.
“The device is also cost-effective compared to conventional rescue equipment, and it can be used by various agencies,” he said.
Zico added that although the innovation did not win the main category during a previous innovation competition, it received a special jury award due to its practicality and potential.
The team is now preparing to compete at the national-level GPM competition in Putrajaya next month.
Meanwhile, Chow commended APM Penang for continuously introducing innovations to improve rescue operations and public safety.
“I congratulate APM Penang for this innovation and the improvements made over the years until it reached this stage for national-level competition.
“I believe this equipment will be very useful in certain situations, especially in forests, hills, rivers and drowning incidents, as it allows rescuers to bring victims out safely without the burden of conventional heavy equipment,” he said.
Chow also expressed hope that the innovation could eventually be commercialised for wider use.
“Who knows, one day this could be produced on a larger scale by manufacturers if there is demand and further improvements are made,” he added.
Also present earlier were APM Penang senior administrative assistant Norazian Osman, general service assistants Hairul Azzuan Ali and Hazwani Abdul Halik, APM Penang volunteer operations personnel Sergio Ferdinand Villenguez, and Rozihan Razni Abdul Rahim.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat