LINGGA – A bush fire covering approximately three acres was reported along Jalan Sinjor, Lingga, on Monday morning, 20 April 2026.
The incident was first communicated to the local fire station at 8:59am by a member of the public, prompting a response from the Fire and Rescue Department Sri Aman unit.
A team led by PBK I Mohd Fadhli bin Buyong was dispatched from the Simunjan Fire and Rescue Station, travelling nearly 90 kilometres to reach the site.
The operation involved two vehicles, a Toyota Hilux and a Nissan Urvan, carrying a small crew equipped with protective gear.
Upon arrival, officers assessed the situation and confirmed the fire had affected a sizeable area of bushland. The team carried out monitoring and safety checks, ensuring the surrounding environment was secure.
Confirmation was sought from the Sarawak State Fire Operations Centre regarding jurisdiction, and it was established that the affected area fell under the supervision of the Simunjan station.
Following this clarification, instructions were issued for the team to return to base without undertaking further firefighting measures. The decision was made as the fire was already under observation and did not pose an immediate threat to nearby communities or infrastructure.
Challenges were noted during the operation, including poor communication coverage, limited mobile phone signals, and difficult road conditions leading to the site.
Officers also highlighted the scarcity of water sources in the affected area, which could complicate firefighting efforts if suppression had been required.
Bush fires are a recurring concern in rural Sarawak, particularly during dry spells when vegetation becomes highly flammable.
Local authorities have consistently urged residents to report incidents promptly and avoid open burning, which can escalate into uncontrolled fires.
The Lingga case underscores the importance of rapid reporting and coordinated response, even when direct firefighting is not necessary.
While no other agencies were involved in this particular incident, the Fire and Rescue Department continues to emphasise community cooperation in safeguarding rural areas from fire hazards.
Residents are reminded that bush fires, though sometimes contained without intervention, can spread quickly under windy conditions. Vigilance and early communication with authorities remain key to preventing larger emergencies.
