Malaysian peacekeepers in Lebanon help contain bushfire
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian peacekeepers serving under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil) helped contain a forest fire near the Tibnine Country Club in the south of the country yesterday.
Malbatt 850-12 personnel stationed at Camp Tibnine, spotted thick smoke rising from the nearby forest at 2.08pm local time.
"The soldier immediately alerted the operations centre, prompting the rapid deployment of a team to the scene with approval from the commander.
"Upon arrival, the peacekeepers sprang into action, carrying out initial firefighting efforts while coordinating with Lebanese civil firefighters who were also at the location," the armed forces Joint Force Headquarters said in a social media post.
It added that a UN water bowser was also deployed to support the local fire brigade.
"Their swift intervention, along with the effective cooperation between Malbatt and the local authorities, ensured the fire was fully brought under control. No injuries or damage to property were reported," it said.
"Their quick and efficient actions have helped reinforce trust and confidence among the local community," the armed force added.
Malbatt 850-12, lead by Colonel Johan Effendi Mohd Shalleh, comprises 854 personnel: 82 officers and 772 other ranks from Malaysia and three officers and 27 personnel from the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.
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