SANDAKAN – A devastating fire swept through Kampung Bahagia in Sandakan early Sunday morning, destroying approximately 1,000 houses built on water, which resulted in over 9,000 displaced people.
The incident, which began shortly after midnight, affected an estimated 10 acres of non-permanent housing structures, all of which were completely consumed by the flames.
The Sabah Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Operations Centre confirmed that an emergency call was received at 1.32 am.
The first team from the Sandakan Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) arrived at the scene within 16 minutes. Operations Commander, Fire Officer Grade B Jasri Ab Jal, reported that the fire spread rapidly due to strong winds and the close proximity of the houses.
He explained that the operation faced significant challenges. Narrow access routes hindered the movement of firefighting machinery, while the receding sea level complicated efforts to secure water sources.
Despite these obstacles, firefighters mounted both offensive and defensive strategies to contain the blaze.
Four 1,000-foot streams with 12 nozzles were deployed, supported by two 400-foot streams with four nozzles from the Kinabatangan Fire Department.
Water supplies were drawn from tankers; hydrants belonging to the IOI Factory; and seawater. A total of 37 firefighters were mobilised, supported by several vehicles, including FRT, CFRT, EMRS and water tankers.
Assistance also came from the Karamunting Volunteer Fire Team, SESB, the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM), and the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM).
The fire was brought under control at 8.43 am, with operations concluding at noon following extensive overhaul work.
Authorities confirmed that no casualties were reported, and no injuries were sustained during the incident.
The destruction of Kampung Bahagia’s waterfront homes marks one of the largest fire incidents in Sandakan in recent years.
Community leaders have expressed concern over the vulnerability of non-permanent housing structures, particularly those built over water, which are prone to rapid fire spread.
Officials emphasised the importance of preventive measures, including improved access routes for emergency vehicles and better water supply infrastructure in coastal settlements.
The incident also highlights the need for heightened awareness among residents regarding fire safety in densely populated areas.
While the immediate priority remains assisting displaced families, the authorities are expected to review long-term strategies to reduce risks in similar communities across Sabah.
The scale of the destruction has drawn attention to the challenges faced by waterfront settlements, where traditional housing styles often lack resilience against large-scale fires.
