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BELAGA, SARAWAK – A tragic fire in Sungai Asap has left 45 plantation workers without shelter after their longhouse-style workers’ quarters were destroyed in a blaze yesterday evening.
The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) reported that they received a distress call at 4.06pm, prompting an immediate response from the Belaga Fire and Rescue Station (BBP). However, due to the remote location — about 112 kilometres away via a rugged logging road — fire personnel arrived only after the structure had been fully consumed by the flames.
According to a JBPM spokesperson, the fire engulfed a block of temporary workers’ housing consisting of 14 units, reducing the entire wooden structure to ashes.
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“The fire destroyed 100 percent of the structure,” the spokesperson confirmed in a press statement.
Thankfully, all the residents — a mix of locals and non-citizens — managed to escape unharmed. No casualties or injuries were reported, though they now face the challenge of being suddenly displaced.
By the time the fire brigade arrived, the fire had already been extinguished, likely by workers and nearby residents. Firefighters then conducted a thorough inspection to ensure there were no remaining hotspots or risks of re-ignition.
The operation was declared under control by 7.10pm, and officially ended at 7.25pm.
As of now, the cause of the fire and the estimated losses are still under investigation.
This incident is yet another reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by rural and plantation communities, particularly those living in remote and temporary housing structures.
Authorities are expected to coordinate with local agencies to provide emergency aid and temporary housing for the affected residents.