Sibu: A total of 19 residents from three families lost their belongings after escaping with only clothes on their backs after a two-storey house they lived in at Kampung Jeriah Abang Ramli, Jalan Oya here was destroyed in a fire today. Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Sibu Zone 4 Chief, PgKB I Ts Andy Alie said all the victims - comprising 10 males and nine females, including children aged between four and 65 - managed to escape without any injuries.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the fire is believed to have started in the rear kitchen area of the house; however, the exact cause of the incident and the total losses are still under investigation. "The fire forensics team will conduct an inspection and further investigation at the scene tomorrow," he said in a statement today.

He added that two operational teams from the Sibu Jaya and Sungai Merah Fire and Rescue Stations (BBP) - with a strength of 14 personnel alongside fire engines - were rushed to the location after receiving an emergency call at 11:30 am. The firefighting operation successfully controlled the blaze from spreading to nearby premises before it was completely concluded at 2:00 pm.

Meanwhile, Sarawak Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development, who is also the Nangka State Assemblyman, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, visited the victims this afternoon to check on their well-being.