Trader loses over RM70k as fire razed 200 fighting fish, eight Bengal cats

PUTATAN - An animal breeder suffered over RM70,000 in losses after his fighting fish and cats that he sold were razed in fire at Kampung Contoh, Petagas, here, yesterday.

The 9pm incident saw 15 houses destroyed, leaving 76 residents from 17 families homeless.

Matdin Pulau, 54, claimed the fire started from his neighbour’s house which was located at the front and he only noticed it when the fire had spread.

"During the incident, I was at the fighting fish storage, and I saw the fire spreading quickly to the neighbouring houses.

"I quickly led my family out, leaving our belongings behind to save ourselves," he told Sinar Harian today.

He said he could not saved the animals that he bred due to the dire situation.

"A total of 200 fighting fish and eight Bengal cats couldn't be saved, and all of it were found burnt this morning.

"We only have the clothes on our backs now, all valuables including jewellery and cash over RM7,000 were all destroyed in the fire," he said.

Another resident Hasrani Harun, 44, said during the incident, she was sending her child to a boarding school in Tuaran but had to rush back when she received a call regarding the fire.

"In a panic, I called and told my children and my father who were at home to save themselves first.

“My personal documents and savings along with my children's school supplies like computers and a printer couldn't be saved," she said.

Sabah Community Development and Wellbeing of the People Minister Datuk Ir Shahelmey Yahya said temporary evacuation centres were set up for all affected residents.

"I was informed that six families have reported to the centre, and some are still on site or staying with relatives nearby.

"We received reports and will see how the government can help with future plans to ensure if they can be placed under the Sabah Maju Jaya housing assistance announced in the state recently," he said.