KUCHING, 22 April 2025 – A shophouse building located behind the Petronas MJC petrol station in Batu Kawah, Kuching, caught fire in the early hours of the morning, but thankfully, no casualties were reported.
The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) confirmed that the fire broke out on the fourth floor of the building, with their Operations Centre (PGO) receiving an emergency call at 3.48 am. An engine from the Batu Lintang Fire and Rescue Station (BBP), manned by 12 firefighters, was immediately dispatched to the scene, which is approximately seven kilometres from the station.
Operation commander PBK I (TBBK I) Awang Saifull Awang Nusi stated that upon arrival at 3.58 am, the firefighters discovered a pile of rubbish and boxes ablaze on the fourth floor. The fire had also affected part of the building’s roof structure.
“The affected area measured about 14 by 20 square feet with roughly 30 percent of the space damaged by the fire,” he explained.
Firefighters managed to bring the fire under control using a 300-foot hose connected to a nearby fire hydrant. The fire was completely extinguished shortly thereafter.
In good news, no individuals were harmed in the incident.
“We also conducted overhaul work to ensure there were no hidden embers or risk of reignition before wrapping up the operation at 5.01 am,” added Awang Saifull.
Authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the fire, but early reports suggest it did not involve any criminal activity or electrical faults.
This incident serves as a reminder to all building owners and tenants, especially in mixed-use and commercial properties, to ensure fire safety practices are always in place and functional.
