SRI AMAN – Firefighters from the Sri Aman Fire and Rescue Station (BBP Sri Aman) were mobilised on Tuesday evening to tackle a large-scale fire at Nanga Entulang.
The emergency call was received at 6.20 pm on 14 July 2026, with the blaze reported to have spread across more than one acre of land. The fire team, led by PBK II (TBK I) Abg Sarkawi as Operations Commander, travelled approximately 29 kilometres to reach the site.
Two vehicles were deployed for the operation: a Fire Rescue Tender (FRT) unit and an Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) unit. The combined manpower included several officers and firefighters equipped with full personal protective equipment (PPE).
Upon arrival, the team conducted a rapid assessment and confirmed the scale of the fire. Using water supplies from the FRT’s tank, firefighters extended hose lines to suppress the flames. The operation continued until the fire was fully extinguished, after which the team carried out a safety inspection to ensure there was no risk of reignition.
The incident was reported by En Zahari, with PBB Azlan receiving the emergency call. No other agencies were involved in the operation, which was handled solely by the Sri Aman Fire and Rescue Department.
Challenges faced during the response included narrow access routes leading to the fire site and the absence of GIRN (Government Integrated Radio Network) coverage, which limited communication capabilities. Despite these obstacles, the team managed to complete the operation successfully.
The Fire and Rescue Department has consistently highlighted the importance of preparedness in rural areas, where access difficulties and limited communication infrastructure can complicate firefighting efforts. Fires covering large areas, such as the one at Nanga Entulang, pose significant risks to both the environment and nearby communities.
Local authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant, especially during dry conditions when land and vegetation fires are more likely to occur. The department continues to encourage the public to report incidents promptly through the 999 hotline to ensure rapid mobilisation of resources.
Community leaders in Sri Aman have commended the firefighters for their swift and professional response, noting that their actions prevented the blaze from spreading further. The incident underscores the critical role of the Fire and Rescue Department in safeguarding lives, property, and the environment across Sarawak.
As investigations proceed, the department is expected to review the circumstances of the fire, including potential causes and contributing factors. Lessons learned from the operation will be used to strengthen future responses, particularly in areas with challenging terrain and limited infrastructure.
