SIBU: A semi-detached house and a car along Jalan Yun Chai Lok, Sungai Bidut, were completely destroyed on the first day of the Chinese New Year (Jan 22).
In addition, another house next to it was partially damaged in the same incident.
Fortunately, 16 tenants from both houses were unharmed, and they managed to escape to safety during the 8.15am incident.
A spokesman from the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) said firemen from Sungai Merah and Sibu Central stations were deployed to the scene to commence extinguishing works.
On arrival, they confirmed that the first house and a parked car were beyond saving, while the second house was 60 per cent destroyed.
Extinguishing works were carried out using water sourced from a fire hydrant, and the flames were brought under control around 9.35am.
Overhaul works were then conducted at the first house’s car porch, where a pile of plastic bags are stored.
After ensuring that the situation was safe, the teams wrapped up the operation at 3.55pm and departed back to their stations.
The cause of the fire and losses incurred are yet to be ascertained.
