Fire Destroys About 200 Homes in Sabah, Malaysia

A fire destroyed approximately 200 homes in Sandakan's Kampung Bahagia water village in Malaysia's Sabah state on April 19, displacing around 445 people. The blaze broke out at about 1:32 a.m. and spread rapidly through densely packed wooden houses built on stilts, according to the Sabah Fire and Rescue Department. No casualties have been reported. Firefighters from Sandakan and Kinabatangan stations, including 35 personnel, arrived at the scene at 1:48 a.m. but faced significant challenges in combatting the fire. Strong winds and the close proximity of the houses helped the flames spread, while low tide conditions reduced access to open water sources. Narrow access routes also prevented fire engines from reaching the site directly, forcing crews to draw water from tankers and a pressurised hydrant at a nearby factory. Zone Sandakan fire commander PgB Jasri Ab Jal led the operation with assistance from Sabah Electricity, the Civil Defence Force, and police. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the federal government was coordinating with Sabah authorities to provide basic assistance and temporary relocation for those affected. The fire broke out in one of Sabah's water villages, which are home to some of Malaysia's poorest communities, including many stateless and indigenous groups. As of April 18, firefighting operations were still underway and the fire was not yet under control.