JOHOR BAHRU, Sept. 11 -- Johor firefighters with Body Mass Index (BMI) readings over 30 have been told to undergo a six-month programme to get their bodies back into peak fitness.

Johor Fire and Rescue Department Siti Rohani Nadir said 143 officers have been identified, adding that most are aged 40 and above, The New Straits Times reported today.

"This is not cosmetic. Firemen are entrusted with saving lives on land, sea and air. They must be physically fit to carry out high-stakes operations effectively," she was quoted saying in a press conference here.

The officers, about 10 per cent of Johor's firefighting force, will join the Wellness Hub Rehabilitation and Strengthening Programme from June to November under certified trainers.

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