Three houses destroyed, two more damaged in fire

Tawau Fire and Rescue Department chief Rudy Fredzek said the fire was spotted by firemen who were patrolling the area at 2.14pm.

Upon spotting the fire, the firemen requested for additional support and two more fire engines joined the operation later.

According to Rudy, three fire engines and 17 fire fighters managed to bring the fire under control in less than 30 minutes and saved a number of houses situated nearby.

"We must also thank the volunteers, especially youths from the village, who assisted our firemen to bring the fire under control," said Rudy.

He added that there were no casualties but the cause of the fire and estimated losses was being investigated.

Meanwhile, Kalabakan Member of Parliament Datuk Seri Abdul Ghapur Salleh who visited the site and the victims, handed out RM5,000 to each family affected by the fire.