MIRI – A total of 127 people fled their homes when a fire broke out at a longhouse in central Sarawak on Saturday.
The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department said its teams took two days to reach the Uma Lesong settlement, located in the upper reaches of the Bakun Dam area in the Belaga district, which is only accessible by foot or boat.
“The Uma Lesong fire outbreak saw 32 living quarters adjoining each other totally razed. About 127 people are affected by the fire.
“Their homes are burnt to the ground, but all managed to escape without serious injuries,” the department said today.
Firefighters are still at the site helping survivors move into temporary shelters at nearby settlements, pending aid from welfare authorities.
In Sibu, a fire in the wee hours this morning saw five families lose their homes, with one fatality reported.
Firefighters said the fire at the Jalan Tiong Hua housing estate was put out about 7am.
“The process of identifying the victim is ongoing,” rescue personnel said.
Survivors are being sheltered at temporary accommodations. – The Vibes, March 29, 2021
