PUSA – A 10-door oil palm plantation workers’ house at the Enggang Oil Palm Estate, Pusa, was completely destroyed in a fire this morning, but fortunately, all occupants were reported safe.
The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Operations Centre (PGO) confirmed receiving an emergency call at 9.58am regarding the incident. Firefighters from the Saratok Fire and Rescue Station (BBP), assisted by their counterparts from Betong BBP, were immediately dispatched to the scene, located about 42 kilometres from the station.
According to JBPM, the temporary workers’ quarters were already fully engulfed in flames upon arrival. The fire, which spread quickly through the wooden structure, left the building 100 percent destroyed.
“The fire brigade used two auxiliary hose lines with water from the machinery tank to control the blaze. The fire was successfully extinguished at 11.05am and the operation concluded at 11.45am,” said the department in a statement.
The operation involved 12 personnel, two Fire Rescue Tender (FRT) vehicles and an Emergency Medical Services (EMRS) unit.
Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were recorded as all 10 occupants, comprising eight men and two women, were at work during the incident.
The cause of the fire and the estimated losses are still under investigation by the Fire and Rescue Department.
Authorities reminded the public, especially those staying in wooden structures, to prioritise fire safety measures and ensure electrical wiring and appliances are regularly checked.
This incident once again highlights the risks faced by plantation workers living in temporary housing units, and the importance of strict fire prevention awareness.