BINTULU: More than 300 longhouse residents were left with nothing but the clothes on their backs after a morning fire destroyed Rumah Lapie, Sungai Sinai in Ulu Sebauh here today.
The Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) said firefighters from Bintulu station were dispatched to the scene, about 34 kilometres away, following a distress call at 11.09 am.
Upon arrival, they found the 30-door longhouse engulfed in flames.
Firefighters immediately began extinguishing efforts using water sourced from a tanker.
Despite their efforts, 27 doors were completely destroyed, while only three were able to be salvaged.
The fire was brought under control by 11.50 am, followed by overhaul works to prevent reignition.
It was reported that a 70-year-old man experienced breathing difficulties during the incident and was taken to the hospital for treatment.
The rest of the residents escaped unharmed.
The cause of the fire and losses incurred is still under investigation.
