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KUCHING, 6 April – A morning scare unfolded along Jalan Padungan today when part of a wall from a shop building suddenly collapsed, raising concerns about structural safety in one of the city’s busiest commercial stretches.
The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) confirmed that it received an emergency call at 6.23am alerting them to the collapse.
Upon arrival, the Padungan Fire and Rescue Team (BBP) discovered that a section of the wall had cracked and fallen, causing debris to scatter near the building. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
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In a statement, JBPM’s spokesperson said the Operations Commander, PBK I Law Kim Hin, swiftly coordinated the evacuation of all occupants from the affected unit as well as workers from neighbouring shops located on the first and second floors.
“As a safety measure, our team has installed barricades around the collapse zone to prevent the public from entering the danger area,” the department added.
The quick action from the fire department likely prevented further danger, especially given the timing of the incident — just before most businesses in the area begin operating.
This incident has raised questions about the integrity of older buildings in the city centre, especially along Jalan Padungan, known for its historic shophouses and popular eateries.
Authorities are expected to carry out further investigations into the cause of the collapse, and building owners in the area may soon be advised to conduct structural assessments.
While no lives were lost, today’s event serves as a reminder of the importance of regular building inspections to ensure public safety in densely populated business zones.