Allianz General advocates electrical fire safety across homes and businesses

Kuala Lumpur, 17 August 2026

As Malaysia continues to embrace technological and economic advancements and manage increased electricity usage across various sectors, Allianz General Insurance Company (Malaysia) Berhad (Allianz General) advocates electrical fire safety to ensure progress and innovation are built on a foundation of protection and resilience.
With electricity playing a vital role in powering residential properties, commercial buildings and the growing electric vehicle (EV) market, the risks associated with electrical fires have become more pronounced. Allianz General aims to educate the public on effective measures to protect lives and property.
"In today's fast-evolving landscape where electricity is integral to urban living, ensuring electrical fire safety and taking proactive safety measures is paramount to safeguard lives and assets. At Allianz General, we strive to empower individuals and businesses with the knowledge and tools to prevent electrical fires,” Allianz General Chief Executive Officer, Sean Wang said.
Electrical fires can start silently but spread quickly, posing significant threats to both property and life. Common culprits include overloaded circuits, faulty or old wiring, poor maintenance of electrical equipment, short circuits, defective or low-quality components and poor housekeeping near electrical equipment.
With the increasing use of high-powered electrical appliances and EVs, Allianz General encourages the public to adopt preventive measures such as avoiding overloading single power sources with multiple devices, conducting annual wiring inspections, cleaning electrical equipment and the surrounding areas regularly, and using certified components.
Advanced tools and technologies like thermal imaging, arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) and smart smoke detectors can detect electrical fire risks early, while effective fire protection systems utilise clean agents like carbon dioxide (CO₂) and inert gas systems, which are non-conductive and ensure safety in occupied spaces.
“Being prepared is key to preventing electrical fires. Regular inspections, maintenance and adherence to safety standards can significantly reduce the risk of electrical fires. By integrating these practices and leveraging predictive tools, we can create safer environments for all,” Sean added.
The effects of neglecting electrical fire safety can be devastating. In 2017, Grenfell Tower – a residential high-rise in London, England – was ravaged by a fire that claimed 72 lives and resulted in severe property damage. The fire sparked from an electrical fault in a resident’s refrigerator and spread rapidly due to the exterior cladding of the building, which was not up to fire safety standards.
Meanwhile, a fire that broke out at the Samsung data centre in Gwacheon, South Korea in 2014 did not result in any casualties, but caused significant service disruptions and damages of reportedly over 100 billion won for Samsung Group, including compensation for losses paid to clients and partners. The cause of the fire was traced back to an electrical fault in the facility’s power supply system.
In Malaysia, electrical issues are the cause of some 60 per cent of house fires, according to the Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM). As per JBPM statistics, the main culprits include unsafe wiring, unauthorised electrical modifications and overloading of electrical appliances.
Allianz General urges businesses and individuals to prioritise electrical fire safety to safeguard lives, protect their environments from potentially destructive effects and maintain operational continuity.