Four homes and five motorcycles were reduced to ashes in a fire that broke out at Kampung Pisang, Air Itam, on Wednesday evening, leaving 26 residents displaced.
According to Penang Fire and Rescue Department operations division assistant director John Sagun Francis, the department received a distress call at 7.01pm. All occupants managed to flee before the arrival of emergency responders, averting any injuries in what could have been a far more tragic incident. Swift public response in such situations often proves crucial in minimising casualties.
A total of 15 minutes was required to contain the flames and stop the fire from spreading to nearby structures. Firefighters concluded the operation at 9.54pm after ensuring the area was safe.
Among the property destroyed were five motorcycles — a Kawasaki Ninja 250, two Honda EX5 units, a Honda RS150R and a Honda Air Blade scooter. The cause of the blaze and the estimated financial losses are still being investigated.
Fire crews reportedly encountered challenges accessing the site due to narrow roads within the village area, a factor that can hamper emergency response times in densely populated settlements.
The fire is also said to have wiped out a family’s preparations for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations, compounding the emotional toll on those affected during what is typically a festive period marked by reunion and renewal.
Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang, who visited the scene, said assistance measures have been identified and a decision on aid distribution is expected by today. He added that occupants of the first two houses escaped with nothing but the clothes they were wearing, as they were unable to salvage any belongings.
Temporary shelter was offered to the affected families, but they opted to stay with relatives for the time being.
