Faktain News – A ferocious fire ripped through a ship repair yard in Bukit Malut, Langkawi, last night, completely engulfing and destroying three ferries that were undergoing maintenance. Despite the extensive damage, authorities confirmed that no casualties or injuries were reported in the dramatic incident.

The alarm was raised at approximately 9.35 PM when the blaze ignited, quickly spreading through the vessels docked for repairs. The Kedah Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) received an emergency call at 9.46 PM, prompting an immediate response.

Rapid Response to the Inferno

Mohd Zamri Abd Ghani, Head of Zone 4 Langkawi for the Kedah Fire and Rescue Department, stated that a swift mobilization of resources followed the emergency call. “Immediately, four fire engines were deployed,” he explained. “Three came from the Persiaran Putra Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) and two from the Langkawi BBP, bringing a total of 23 personnel to the scene.”

Upon arrival, firefighters discovered a chaotic scene with three ferries berthed in close proximity ablaze. The intensity of the flames posed significant challenges to the rescue teams.

Extensive Damage and Heroic Efforts

The fire caused severe destruction to the fleet. Two of the affected ferries suffered an estimated 80 percent destruction and subsequently drifted approximately 50 meters from their original mooring points. Another ferry sustained less severe damage, with about five percent of its structure burned.

Firefighters also managed to successfully save two other ferries anchored nearby from the encroaching flames. A third ferry that was in danger was carefully pulled out of the immediate danger zone and secured to a floating buoy.

“In the operation, one of the burning ferries was pulled to the shore with the assistance of a fisherman’s boat, while another actively burning ferry was allowed to extinguish itself safely,” Mohd Zamri detailed.

The complex firefighting operation involved deploying a 91-meter hose line with two powerful water jets, fed directly from the fire engines’ tanks. This strategic approach aimed to contain the blaze and prevent further spread.

Investigation Underway

The relentless efforts of the fire and rescue teams brought the inferno fully under control by 11.07 PM. The extensive operation finally concluded at 2.10 AM the following morning, marking an intense night for emergency services.

Mohd Zamri confirmed that the exact cause of the devastating fire remains under investigation. Authorities are also working to determine the total financial losses incurred from the destruction of the vessels.