KOTA SAMARAHAN, 6 May 2025 — A pre-dawn fire completely destroyed an excavator parked along Jalan Kampung Melayu, here early this morning, causing alarm among nearby residents.
According to the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Operations Centre (PGO), they received an emergency alert at 3.01 am. Responding swiftly, a team from the Kota Samarahan Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) was dispatched to the scene, located about 28 kilometres from the station.
The operation was led by Operations Commander PBK I Lydia Sarkawi, who reported that upon arrival, the team found the excavator already engulfed in flames.
“Immediate action was taken using a hose reel to bring the fire under control. The blaze was successfully contained by 3.40 am, and the entire operation concluded by 4.05 am after thorough overhaul work,” she said in a statement today.
Fortunately, no casualties were reported. The excavator was believed to be idle on the roadside when the incident occurred. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing. Estimated losses have yet to be determined.
The firefighting effort involved a total of eight personnel, along with two key assets – a Fire Rescue Tender (FRT) and an Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) unit.
Police have taken over the case for further investigation. Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area during the early hours to come forward with information.
This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by heavy machinery fires and the importance of regular maintenance and safe parking practices, especially in isolated or unmonitored areas.
