Kuala Lumpur: A massive fire swept through Kampung Bahagia, a floating village in Sandakan, Malaysia, early Sunday morning, destroying hundreds of homes and displacing residents. Local authorities and emergency teams launched a large-scale rescue and relief operation immediately following the disaster.

Sandakan Fire and Rescue Station Chief Jimmy Lagung reported that firefighters were dispatched at 1:32 am to battle the blaze. Following an initial assessment, Datuk Walter Kenson of the Sandakan District Disaster Management Committee confirmed that the remaining structures in the affected area are no longer safe for habitation.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed his shock over the incident, announcing that the federal and Sabah state governments are working together to provide emergency aid and temporary housing for the victims. While the fire caused extensive property damage, authorities have not yet determined the cause of the blaze.

Join the Rehaab Online WhatsApp group for timely updates  (Click here to join the group)