KOTA KINABALU: Fire authorities issued 34 compound fines and warnings to hotel and accommodation operators across Sabah after finding fire alarm systems tampered with, deactivated, or bypassed during a statewide crackdown on Thursday (Sept 3).

The surprise blitz, dubbed Ops Trigger, targeted 76 premises between 10am and 3pm to enforce fire safety compliance.

Sabah Fire and Rescue Department Director Mohd Pisar Aziz said compounds totalling RM4,600 were handed out.

"The alarm system is the first line of defence when a fire breaks out, giving occupants critical time to evacuate," Mohd Pisar said. "Technical issues should never be used as an excuse to cover up negligence."

He warned that disabling early detection systems poses a severe threat, particularly in high-capacity lodging where guests are often asleep and unfamiliar with emergency escape routes.

Mohd Pisar added that the department will step up enforcement and prioritise high-risk premises, making routine checks a permanent feature of their monitoring strategy to ensure full compliance.