The Penang Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) is currently investigating the cause of a fire that broke out at an entertainment premises in Jalan Penang last night, which also claimed the life of a Myanmar construction worker.
Penang JBPM director Mohamad Shoki Hamzah said several samples collected from the scene, including near the victim’s body, have been sent to the Fire Investigation Laboratory for further analysis, which is expected to take about 14 days.
He said the fire involved a two-storey heritage building measuring 18 metres by 50 metres, which previously operated as an entertainment outlet and was undergoing renovation to be converted into a restaurant.
In a broader context, authorities often emphasise the importance of strict safety compliance during renovation works, especially in older buildings, to reduce the risk of fire incidents.
Mohamad Shoki said the premises had ceased operations since late February, and renovation works were ongoing at the time of the incident.
Based on witness statements and the findings of the incident commander, the fire is believed to have started at the middle section of the ground floor, while both the front and rear entrances were found locked during the blaze.
He added that significant structural damage of around 70 per cent was recorded at the premises.
The K9 unit has also been alerted and will be deployed to assist in the ongoing investigation.
Authorities are still determining the cause of the fire, ignition source, and total losses involved.
Firefighters received an emergency call at 8.50pm, and the body of the victim, identified as Mohamad Boshi Sabi Ullah, 56, was found on the ground floor near the main entrance with first-degree burn injuries.
Police have classified the case as sudden death, and a sudden death report has been opened to facilitate further investigation.
