Longhouse fire leaves 350 homeless in Miri

A fire gutted the Usek Sumpit longhouse in Sungai Keriok in Niah, Miri, this morning, leaving its 350 residents homeless.

Miri Fire and Rescue Department chief Law Poh Kiong said the fire destroyed the longhouse, which comprised 37 housing units, while another 12-unit block located opposite the burning block was untouched.

"All 350 residents are safe," he said adding that the cause of fire and estimated losses are being investigated.

According to Law, the department was alerted of the fire at 8.52am and the fire was brought under control by 11.30am.

He said this is the second longhouse fire to occur this week, as last Monday fire destroyed the Uma Bakung longhouse in Sungai Asap, Belaga which left 470 people homeless.

- Bernama