Bomba's 2016 calendar is everything you hoped for and more
BY DINA MURADthe star
PETALING JAYA: It's Malaysia's hottest desk calendar you'll never see. Or at least, one you'll likely never see beyond this article.
The 2016 Bomba calendar by the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department is finally out, but it appears to be even more elusive than its predecessors – so all the best getting your hands on one.
As previous calendars have been printed only for internal circulation, it is assumed that this one is also exclusively for Department staff.
Even though the 2015 calendar was not meant for public distribution, it was so popular that Malaysians were calling district Fire and Rescue Departments and flooded their social media pages to ask for calendars.
Eventually, reprints were ordered to cater to the huge demand.
This year's calendar was released in a more subdued fashion. No social media announcement or brouhaha but chances are big time Bomba fans will find out soon enough.
There is no need to despair however, because The Star journalists are of conscientious minds, and have appropriated a copy so that its contents can be disseminated for public good.
Much like the 2014 and 2015 versions, this year also features buff firemen but 2016 comes with so much more.
There are the obligatory muscled men carrying miscellaneous fire-extinguishing apparatuses.
Hazmat (Hazardous Material) suits are necessary for Malaysian firemen to reach the most toxic of environments in their rescue missions.
There appears to be some sort of junior recruitment drive going on here.
And lots of rappelling too....
Not to forget life-saving.
The Department forensics team also gets a feature at the end of the calendar.
Fans are holding their breath hoping that next year's calendar will come complete with cat rescues.
While the calendars are not for sale, in previous years the department has been known to give out free copies at its hosted public events. So those desperate to get their hands on the new calendars can either try attending the functions or monitor the Fire and Rescue Department’s Facebook page for possible competitions or giveaways.
On a more serious note, the underlying message of the calendars is simple – the job of a fireman is no easy feat. The good men and women from the Fire and Rescue Department dedicate their lives to protect ours. They are vital and respected members of society and come to the public's aid whenever duty calls.
But most importantly, they are a good-natured and humble people, who don't mind looking at the lighter side of things by churning out a fun calendar every year. Kudos to them
