Multi-agency effort continues to contain Sibu bushfire

SIBU (March 28): Firefighters and supporting agencies continued efforts on the second day to contain the Ngu Chung Beng bushfire near Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman here, which has affected a total of 16.4 hectares so far.

Zone 4 Sibu Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) chief Andy Alie said the operation faced several challenges, including difficult access to the remote site, peat fires estimated at one to two feet deep, and dry, windy conditions that accelerated the blaze.

“The terrain is challenging as the fire site is deep in the interior. The peat fire adds complexity, and combined with dry and windy conditions, the fire can spread quickly.

“Our teams have been divided into two zones, working closely with other agencies to contain the blaze,” he said when contacted.

Zone A operated with 500- and 400-feet hoses supplied by mobile pumps drawing water from the river, while Zone B used 600- and 500-feet hoses.

The operation involved 12 Bomba personnel with one fire rescue truck and two Hilux vehicles, supported by about 50 personnel from Rela Corp, the Malaysian Armed Forces, Civil Defence, police, the Department of Irrigation and Drainage, Works Ministry, and Sarawak Energy.

Heavy machinery, pumps, and a drone were deployed to ensure water supply and monitor the area.

“The goal for today is to suppress an estimated 3.6 hectares. Coordination between agencies is crucial to prevent the fire from spreading further,” said Andy, adding that updates on containment progress will be provided as operations continue.