Kuala lumpur: A fire, suspected to have been ignited by an electrical short circuit, engulfed approximately 30 houses at the Kampung Orang Asli Teluk Jawa water settlement early this morning, rendering 117 residents from 30 families homeless. The incident, which occurred around 6.50 am, rapidly consumed the wooden stilt houses, leaving the residents with nothing but the clothes on their backs as strong winds exacerbated the fire's spread.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Tok Batin (community leader) representative, Awie Mee, reported the loss of several fishing boats and equipment, which are crucial for the community's livelihood. "Dozens of fishing boat engines were burnt, and several motorcycles were also destroyed," Awie mentioned, noting that many men were out at sea when the fire erupted. The Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA) has visited the scene to organize aid for those affected.

Meanwhile, one of the victims, Yati Mee, recounted her loss of RM10,000 in savings and two boats worth around RM30,000. "I had just returned after sending my children to school. When I arrived, the fire was already raging. I did not have time to save anything," said Yati, a mother of three and fisherwoman. Another victim, Murai Toh, shared that her fishing boat engine, valued at about RM6,000, was also destroyed in the fire.

Pasir Gudang Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) chief, Deputy Fire Superintendent II Firdaus Ahmad, stated that they received the emergency call at 7.04 am. In response, 28 personnel, along with three Fire Rescue Tender (FRT) engines and an Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) unit, were dispatched to the scene. The fire affected temporary structures with wooden walls and zinc roofs, resulting in about 30 houses being 90 percent destroyed. Fortunately, no casualties were reported as all residents managed to evacuate before firefighters arrived.

Following the incident, a temporary relief centre was established at 1 pm to accommodate the displaced residents. Johor Disaster Management Committee (JPBN) chairman Datuk Asman Shah Abd Rahman confirmed in a statement that the 117 victims are currently staying at the Dewan Muafakat Taman Megah Ria relief centre in Permas. Investigations into the exact cause of the fire and the total extent of the losses are still ongoing.