GEORGE TOWN: One fatality has been reported at the site of the former Odeon cinema along Jalan Penang, which was gutted by a blaze on Saturday (May 30) night.
"Upon receiving an alert on the fire incident at Midnight Black (formerly Odeon Theatre) along Jalan Penang Road tonight, I immediately rushed to the scene.
"I was joined by Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying to assess the situation and receive updates from the relevant authorities," said Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was on the ground as the fire was being put out.
In a statement on Facebook, Chow said he was informed that firefighters acted swiftly to bring the blaze under control, successfully preventing it from spreading to adjacent buildings, including those along Jalan Sri Bahari.
"The Fire and Rescue Department has confirmed that one fatality has been reported so far. I understand that the premises had not commenced operations at the time of the fire.
"The cause of the incident and the extent of losses will be determined following further investigations by the Fire and Rescue Department," he said.
Chow also extended his deepest condolences to the family of the deceased.
"I would like to express my sincere appreciation to all firefighters and emergency responders for their professionalism and swift action in safeguarding nearby residents and properties," he added.
The iconic Odeon building, now used as an entertainment joint, is still ablaze almost two hours after the fire was reported around 8.50pm on Saturday.
"As of now, the double-storey building has suffered 50% damages from the blaze.
"Works are still being carried out to put out the fire," said the Fire and Rescue Department.
The department added that 25 personnel have been deployed to the site.
Well known for featuring both Western and Asian films throughout the decades, the Odeon building was a much celebrated cinema before shutting down more than a decade ago.
Over the years, it changed hands multiple times and was eventually turned into an entertainment joint, with the iconic building still featuring an Odeon sign.
