GEORGE TOWN: A veteran lawyer and a clerk were killed in a blaze that engulfed a double-storey pre-war house.
The bodies of former prominent lawyer Datuk San Markan Ganapathi, 88, and clerk Chandra Binwani Jiwatram, 60, were found on the first floor of the building along Lebuh King.
Both are believed to have succumbed to smoke inhalation in the fire that started just after noon.
San Markan, who had only recently celebrated his 88th birthday, was found seated near a window. He had retired several years ago and was serving as a notary public.
Chandra’s body was recovered near a wall beneath a pile of files.
“Thick smoke, likely intensified by the large volume of paper files stored in the building, is believed to have contributed to the fatalities,” said Penang Fire and Rescue Department director Mohamad Shoki Hamzah.
He said the firefighters faced several challenges, including the building’s fragile structure and heavy smoke.
“The building is old, structurally weak and partially made of wood. The floor also collapsed,” he said. “The cause of the fire is still under investigation.”
To add to the firemen’s challenges, the mid-day traffic congestion in the area delayed their response.
But the time firefighters arrived, about 70% of the building had been destroyed.
The department received a distress call at 12.14pm, with firefighters from the Lebuh Pantai station arriving at 12.25pm.
Several firefighters from nearby stations and volunteer firefighter squads also came to help before the fire was brought under control at 2pm.
Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying and Jelutong MP RSN Rayer also rushed to the scene.
Describing San Markan as a highly respected senior figure in the legal community, Rayer said the late lawyer was known for his vast experience and willingness to guide others.
“We have lost a very senior lawyer, someone whom we all looked up to and would always call for reference. This is a tragic loss,” he said.
Family members of the victims were present but were too distraught to speak to the press.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow expressed his condolences over the tragedy.
“As Padang Kota assemblyman, I will ask all agencies, especially the Fire and Rescue Department, to ensure a thorough investigation.
“All appropriate measures will be considered, including improving fire safety in old buildings and high-risk areas across the state.”
The bodies have been sent to Penang Hospital.
