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SIBU (Jan 17): A late-night fire caused significant damage to two abandoned tugboats berthed near the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM) Tanjong Manis complex early today.
The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) received the alert at 12:02am, prompting the swift deployment of seven firefighters from the Tanjung Manis fire station.
According to Bomba, the first tugboat suffered extensive damage, estimated at 80 per cent, while the second tugboat experienced minor damage, about 5 per cent.
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“Upon arrival, the operation commander reported a fire involving two abandoned tugboats along the riverbank near LKIM Tanjong Manis. The team encountered challenging conditions as the river water was low, leaving the area muddy and swampy, which hampered access to the fire location,” said Bomba in a statement.
Despite these obstacles, firefighters employed external defensive techniques to battle the flames. The fire was successfully controlled and extinguished before the team returned to base at 1:47am.
The cause of the fire and the total value of damages are currently under investigation.
The incident highlights the importance of monitoring abandoned vessels, which can pose fire risks and hinder firefighting efforts due to difficult terrain and access.
Local authorities are urged to take preventive measures to address potential hazards involving abandoned structures and ensure public safety along riverbanks.