Tawau: About 40 houses were destroyed in a fire at Kampung Titingan near Sekolah Kebangsaan Kampung Titingan here this morning.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sabah Fire and Rescue Department's Tawau Zone chief Moilley Milin stated that the department received an emergency call at 10.15 am, and three fire engines arrived at the scene at 10.23 am.

The department utilized water from open sources as well as its water tankers to battle the blaze, which was brought under control by 12.03 pm. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

One of the fire victims, Saparida Ambuolo, in her 60s, mentioned that she was performing the solat dhuha at 10 am when she heard neighbors shouting about the fire. Upon stepping outside, she saw the fire already engulfing the middle of the village. She was alone at home as her children were at work, so she sought help from villagers to save belongings like the television and washing machine.

This incident marks the second time Saparida has faced a fire. She expressed uncertainty about her future living arrangements and hopes for government assistance, akin to the People's Housing Programme in the past. Saparida accepted the incident, which occurred just ahead of Ramadan, as fate, noting that no preparations had been made to welcome the holy month.