SIBU: A longhouse was destroyed in a blaze that left about 100 people homeless in the Uma Baha Bakun resettlement scheme in Sungai Asap, Belaga on Thursday (Jan 5).
But quick action by voluntary firefighters prevented the destruction of 14 other longhouses, says the state Fire and Rescue Department.
It said one longhouse, Block F, was destroyed in the 2pm blaze.
The department said the voluntary firefighters from Uma Daro Liling teamed up to prevent the fire from spreading to the other longhouses.
A resident of Block V, Umie Liau, said they were all petrified seeing the fire engulfed Block F.
"We were very worried that the fire would spread as all longhouses are located next to each other," said Umie.
She said residents prayed hard for their safety and that of the other longhouses.
Umie, who is the chairman of the Kenyah Uma Baha Women's Association Sibu, said residents from nearby areas helped to put out the fire.
She said firemen from Belaga station later arrived at the scene.
