SIBU, 12 March 2025 – A shophouse owner’s swift action prevented a small fire from turning into a major disaster in an incident at Jalan Lanang yesterday evening.
According to the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Sibu Zone Chief, Andy Alie, they received an emergency call regarding the fire at 6.56 PM. Firefighters from the Sibu Sentral Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) were immediately dispatched to the scene.
Upon arrival, the firefighters discovered that the fire had broken out in a rented room within the shophouse. However, thanks to the quick response of the property owner, the fire was completely extinguished before the fire brigade arrived.
“The homeowner successfully put out the fire using fire extinguishing media. This quick action prevented further damage and possible spread of the fire,” Andy Alie stated in a press release.
The fire affected an area of approximately 10 x 10 square feet, with an estimated 10% destruction. Although the flames were out, thick smoke remained trapped inside the building. Firefighters conducted monitoring procedures and opened windows for ventilation to clear the smoke.
As a precautionary measure, homeowners were advised to avoid using rooms as storage spaces for unused items, as clutter increases fire risks.
Fortunately, no injuries or loss of life were reported. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
This incident serves as a reminder for property owners to be proactive in fire prevention. Having fire extinguishers on-site and ensuring proper storage of items can reduce the risk of fire-related accidents.
For now, the quick-thinking shophouse owner deserves recognition for preventing what could have been a devastating fire.
