Peatland Fire in Kota Tinggi Leads to Evacuation of Two Families

KUALA LUMPUR – Two families were forced to evacuate their homes on Sunday after a peatland fire broke out near Jalan Sungai Kapal in Taman Bayu Damai.

Tanjung Surat Assemblyman Aznan Tamin stated that the evacuation involved six individuals, including four adults and two children. The families were moved to the Teluk Empang Community Hall as a safety precaution due to thick smoke and the close proximity of the flames to their residences.

“I have inspected several locations where open fires have occurred due to the hot weather and strong winds around Taman Bayu Damai and Lepau,” Aznan said, adding that the Tanjung Surat State Constituency Service Center is fully supporting the victims’ welfare during their temporary relocation.

Firefighting Operations Underway

Fire and Rescue Department (BBP) Operations Commander Shahrizan Selamat reported that the peatland fire has affected an estimated four hectares of land. As of Sunday evening, firefighters have successfully extinguished approximately 57 percent of the blaze.

The firefighting efforts are divided into two sectors. In Sector B, crews are utilizing high-pressure pumps and hoses connected to nearby fire hydrants. However, operations in Sector A have faced difficulties due to limited water access, intense smoke, and high winds, prompting teams to focus their current resources on protecting residential areas.

Warning Against Open Burning

Authorities have cautioned residents in affected areas to prioritize their safety and cooperate with evacuation orders if necessary. Aznan Tamin also reminded the public to remain vigilant and avoid any open burning activities, especially during the current dry and windy conditions.

Multiple fire stations, including units from Punggai, Sebana, Sungai Rengit, and Bandar Penawar, are involved in the ongoing monitoring and control operations to ensure the fire does not spread further into populated areas.