By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 1: A 55-year-old longhouse that had stood since 1971 was reduced to ashes after fire engulfed the abandoned 62-door structure at Simpang Nu, Batu Niah yesterday (July 31).
The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) said the emergency call was received at 6.24pm, prompting firefighters from the Batu Niah Fire and Rescue Station (BBP), assisted by personnel from the Lopeng BBP, to respond to the scene.
Upon arrival at 6.55pm, firefighters found the blaze had already engulfed Rumah Panjang Changgai, a non-permanent wooden longhouse measuring about 200 by 600 square feet.
Built in 1971, the longhouse had been left unoccupied since 2023, according to a Bomba report. The fire destroyed the structure completely, although no casualties were reported.
Firefighters deployed three hose lines to contain the blaze, drawing water from the fire engine and a nearby drain. A relay pumping system was also used to ensure a continuous water supply throughout the operation.
The fire was brought under control at 8.15pm before being fully extinguished, with overhaul works carried out to eliminate any remaining hotspots.
Investigations into the cause of the fire and the extent of the losses are ongoing. — DayakDaily
