TAWAU: A fire that swept through Kampung Kurnia Jaya at Batu 4 Jalan Apas is believed to have been caused by an electrical short circuit from illegal electricity connections, leaving nearly 120 residents homeless.
Following the incident, Youth, Sports and Creative Economy Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan urged the public, especially those in densely populated areas, to avoid unauthorised wiring practices.
“I was informed that this devastating fire was caused by a short circuit due to illegal electrical connections at an unoccupied house, as the residents were at work.
Recurring fires in this area should serve as a lesson for us to be more cautious, particularly in ensuring houses are built with the landowner’s permission,” he said.
Nizam said this after presenting humanitarian aid to 23 families, comprising 117 fire victims, temporarily housed at Dewan Sri Balung, Batu 8 Jalan Apas on Saturday.
The Apas Assemblyman also handed over cash assistance, together with Tawau MP Datuk Lo Su Fui, in addition to daily-use items provided by the government through the Sabah Social Welfare Services Department.
