TAWAU: A total of 40 houses were destroyed in a major fire at Kampung Titingan this morning, but no casualties have been reported.
The incident occurred around 10:15 AM, and the Fire and Rescue Department received an emergency call before the first unit arrived at the scene eight minutes later.
Operation Commander, PBK I Mohd Yahya Abd Fattah, stated that the fire affected an area of approximately 131 x 147 meters and involved temporary housing.
“The extinguishing operation used three lines of water stretching 900 feet with six water jets. Water sources were obtained from fire engines, tankers, fire hydrants, and open water,” he said in a statement on Monday.
He mentioned that the operation faced challenges due to low water pressure and unpredictable winds, causing the fire to spread quickly to adjacent houses.
However, the fire was brought under control by 11:55 AM, and the operation was fully concluded by 3:19 PM after ensuring the area was safe.
A total of 25 firefighters from BBP Tawau along with 7 members of the Titingan Community Fire Brigade participated in the operation with assistance from the JBPM Drone Unit.
Other agencies that assisted included the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Sabah Electricity, the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM), and the Sabah State Water Department.
The cause of the fire and the extent of the losses are still under investigation.
