SANDAKAN: A massive early-morning fire tore through Kampung Bahagia in Batu Sapi, leaving up to 1,000 homes destroyed and affecting 9,007 residents in one of Sandakan’s worst fires.
The blaze, which broke out around 1.30am on Sunday (April 19), spread rapidly through the tightly packed settlement of wooden stilt houses, leaving families with little time to escape as flames engulfed entire rows of homes.
Firefighters faced significant challenges in bringing the blaze under control as narrow access routes prevented fire engines from reaching the site directly, while low tide limited access to open water sources.
Strong winds and the close spacing of the houses further fuelled the flames, with about 35 personnel from the Sandakan and Kinabatangan stations relying on water tankers and a nearby factory hydrant to battle the fire.
Sandakan OCPD Asst Comm George Abd Rakman, when met by reporters at the scene, said the area, which houses about 1,200 units, saw around 1,000 homes affected in the incident.
“This is a very large-scale and heartbreaking incident, involving 9,007 residents,” he said.
The area was declared a disaster zone at about 4am.
ACP George added that the fire was brought under control shortly after 4am, with authorities now focused on registering victims and coordinating assistance.
Three temporary evacuation centres (PPS) have been identified at PPR Sandakan, PPR Batu Sapi hall and SK Kampung Gas, with registration of victims still ongoing.
ACP George said no fatalities have been reported so far, although some individuals sustained minor injuries while trying to save belongings or assist others.
“The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Fire Department,” he said.
Meanwhile, village chief Sharif Hassim Sharif Titing said authorities are still working to determine where all victims will be placed, especially those without transport.
“Some have been told to go to the PPR, but many don’t have vehicles. We are still waiting for further arrangements,” he said.
Sekong assemblyman Alias Sani said efforts are underway to ensure aid reaches those affected as quickly as possible.
“This is a very large-scale fire. I will make sure assistance is fully mobilised and coordinated with all relevant agencies, including getting a full report from the Fire Department,” he said.
