KINABATANGAN, Malaysia – A devastating residential fire broke out late on Tuesday night in Kampung Pangkalan Bukit Garam, Kinabatangan, razing seven homes and injuring a volunteer fireman who was helping to contain the blaze. The fire sent shockwaves through the local community as families scrambled to evacuate with their belongings.
Fire and Rescue Department crews, together with Civil Defence officers, police, and local volunteers, rushed to the scene after receiving an emergency call at approximately 10:08 p.m. Upon arrival, responders encountered multiple houses fully engulfed in flames, with the fire rapidly spreading due to strong winds and closely spaced structures.
During the firefighting operation, 24-year-old volunteer fireman Mohammad Azri Laji sustained an injury to his left leg after stepping on a nail while performing fire suppression efforts. He was promptly given medical attention at the scene and later released after treatment. His bravery, along with the efforts of professional firefighters and other volunteers, was praised by local authorities and residents.
Firefighters used multiple water sources, including fire engines, hydrants, and a nearby river, to combat the blaze. After intensive efforts, the fire was declared under control at 11:20 p.m., with operations continuing until 1:40 a.m. to ensure that all hotspots were extinguished and the surrounding area was safe. Thanks to the coordinated response, emergency crews prevented the fire from spreading to 10 additional homes nearby, potentially averting further destruction and loss.
Residents described the incident as a “night of chaos”, with some losing nearly all their personal belongings. Temporary shelters and aid were being arranged by local authorities and community organizations to support affected families. Several residents were reported to have minor injuries or suffered from smoke inhalation but were treated and released promptly.
Authorities are now investigating the cause of the fire, with early indications suggesting that it may have started in one of the homes before rapidly spreading. Fire safety experts emphasized the importance of smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and emergency preparedness, especially in rural communities where homes are close together and response times can be critical.
The incident highlights the risks faced by volunteer and professional firefighters, who often put their lives on the line during such emergencies. Community leaders have called for greater support, training, and resources for local firefighting teams to reduce future risks.
Overall, the Kinabatangan fire serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety awareness, swift emergency response, and community solidarity during crises. Efforts are ongoing to assist displaced families and assess the full extent of property damage while authorities continue their investigation into the fire’s origin.
