Sandakan district

Fire Destroys Around 1,000 Homes in Malaysia's Sabah State, Displacing Thousands

A fire destroyed around 1,000 homes in a coastal water village in Malaysia's Sabah state on Borneo island on Sunday, displacing over 9,000 residents. The fire broke out at around 1.32am in Sandakan district, spreading rapidly due to strong winds and the close proximity of wooden houses built on stilts. Low tide conditions hampered firefighting efforts. The area is home to some of Malaysia's poorest communities, including many stateless and indigenous groups. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the federal government is coordinating with local authorities to provide assistance.