Hundreds displaced after fire destroys 200 homes in coastal village, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur (Reuters) – A fire broke out in Sandakan district around 1.32 a.m., destroying approximately 200 homes in one of Sabah’s water villages.
District’s fire and rescue chief Jimmy Lagung told Bernama that strong winds and close proximity of houses caused the rapid spread of the blaze, while low tide conditions hindered efforts to access an open water source for firefighting.
Around 445 people have been displaced so far, according to Bernama. Many residents are from some of Malaysia’s poorest communities, including stateless and indigenous groups.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that the federal government is coordinating with Sabah authorities to provide basic assistance and temporary relocation for those affected. The priority now is ensuring victim safety and immediate ground-level aid.