Mohd Zulhilmy Abdullah (left), a research officer of Tropical Peat Research Laboratory Unit, demonstrating how dry peat soil could become combustible to Lau (second left) and others at the exhibition area where the 15th IPC 2016 is currently held in Kuching. — Photos by Chimon Upon

KUCHING: The 15th International Peat Congress (IPC) 2016 has proven to be a great resource for networking and getting new knowledge on how to tackle peat fire in Miri, said Miri Zone fire chief Senior Fire Superintendent Law Poh Kiong.

He said having been in the service for the last 32 years did not deter him from acquiring as much new knowledge and information from the congress as possible.

“This congress has given me the opportunity to meet up with many experts in various fields especially in peat soil. What I have learnt here will be very useful in tackling wild fires in Kuala Baram area where it could happen especially during dry weather like this,” Law told The Borneo Post on the sidelines of the congress at a leading hotel here yesterday.

He said one of the challenges they face in Miri is managing water in peatland in Kuala Baram area.

“We have been using both the tube well and check dam methods to fight peat fires in Miri successfully. But I hope I would be able to implement some of the new and innovative ideas which I have acquired from this congress,” said Lau.

Lau was thankful to his department for giving him the chance to participate in the four-day high-level international congress.

“I am leading about 150 personnel in the Fire and Rescue Department in Miri and what I learnt from here will definitely give me the confidence not only to manage our peat well but the men under me,” added Lau.

He also said interacting and networking with foreign participants has been a great experience during the congress.

“In this congress I have spoken to some Indonesian delegates on how they have improved their methods in tackling peat fire. So this kind of avenue is just great,” added Lau.

The four-day 15th IPC 2016 was officiated at by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem on Tuesday. Some 1,000 participants from more than 30 countries are taking part in the congress. It is the first time in history that the IPC — which has traditionally been held in Europe and North America – was brought over to Asia.