Fire Ravages Kota Belud Village, Leaves Hundreds Homeless
KOTA BELUD: A devastating fire swept through Kampung Kuala Abai, destroying 18 houses and leaving more than 200 residents, including 42 families, without homes. The inferno struck in the late afternoon, around 3.40pm, and quickly spread due to the proximity of the houses and strong winds.
Immediate Response and Rescue Efforts
Kota Belud Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) Mobilizes
Assistant Fire Superintendent Muhammad Syazwan Latun, head of the Kota Belud Fire and Rescue Station (BBP), reported that the fire department received an emergency call at 3.43pm. A team of 20 members and officers, equipped with machinery from BBP Kota Belud and assisted by BBP Tuaran, rushed to the scene.
Swift Action to Contain the Blaze
Upon arrival, the operation team swiftly launched an effort to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby houses. The fire was brought under control by 5.20pm. Despite their efforts, 18 houses were completely destroyed, while 35 houses were successfully saved.
Detailed Account of the Incident
Challenges Faced by Firefighters
The position of the houses, built closely together, and the strong winds contributed significantly to the rapid spread of the fire. The extinguishing operation involved two streams of three fountains, utilizing mechanical water sources and open water.
Community Involvement in Firefighting
The operation was also supported by the Kulambai and Pangkalan Abai Voluntary Fire Brigades (PBS), the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), and Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB). No injuries or casualties were reported, and the efforts to extinguish the embers of the fire are ongoing.
Investigation and Aftermath
Cause and Total Loss Under Investigation
Assistant Fire Superintendent Muhammad Syazwan Latun stated that the cause of the fire and the total loss are still under investigation. The immediate focus remains on ensuring the safety of the residents and preventing any further damage.
Impact on the Community
The fire has left a profound impact on the Kampung Kuala Abai community. Over 200 residents have lost their homes, and the task of rebuilding their lives begins. The local authorities and community organizations are expected to provide assistance and support to those affected.
Rebuilding and Support Efforts
Call for Aid and Assistance
In the wake of the disaster, there is a pressing need for aid and assistance for the displaced families. Donations of food, clothing, and other essentials will be crucial in helping the residents recover from this tragic event.
Government and NGO Involvement
The government and non-governmental organizations are likely to step in to provide necessary aid. Efforts to rebuild the destroyed homes and restore normalcy in Kampung Kuala Abai will require a coordinated response from all stakeholders.
Safety Measures and Future Precautions
Enhancing Fire Safety Awareness
This incident highlights the need for increased fire safety awareness and preparedness, especially in areas with closely built houses. Implementing firebreaks, ensuring proper fire safety equipment, and conducting regular fire drills could help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Community Training and Preparedness
Training community members in basic firefighting techniques and emergency response can enhance the overall preparedness of the village. Building a resilient and well-prepared community is essential to mitigate the impact of such disasters.
Conclusion
The devastating fire in Kampung Kuala Abai has left a deep scar on the community, displacing over 200 residents and destroying 18 homes. The swift response from the fire and rescue teams, along with community support, helped control the blaze and save additional houses. As investigations continue, the focus now shifts to supporting the affected families and rebuilding their lives. This tragic incident underscores the importance of fire safety awareness and community preparedness in preventing future disasters.