Terengganu authorities raid illegal office-to-dormitory conversions

The Terengganu Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) conducted an integrated operation, dubbed ‘Ops Sarang Burung’, to inspect premises in Kuala Terengganu that had been illegally converted from offices into dormitories.

Authorities inspected four locations, including Jalan Engku Sar, Jalan Masjid Abidin, Jalan Engku Pengiran Anom 2, and Jalan Sultan Zainal Abidin. The raid revealed that office spaces were being used as dormitories for students and foreign workers without proper authorization.

JBPM Director Nor Mahathir Muhammad reported that the premises were unsafe for emergencies, noting they were cramped, lacked proper specifications, and often featured only a single exit. Owners and tenants have been issued warning notices under the Fire Services Act 1988 and must apply to change the status of the premises with the Kuala Terengganu City Council within one week.