Full Breakdown
Fire Destroys Homes in Kampung Orang Asli Teluk Jawa
2/13/2026, 2:00:23 AM
Overview of the Incident
A significant fire broke out in Kampung Orang Asli Teluk Jawa, located in Pasir Gudang, Johor, on February 12, 2023, at approximately 6:30 AM. The Johor Fire and Rescue Department received an emergency call at 7:04 AM, and the Pasir Gudang Fire and Rescue Station dispatched a team that arrived at the scene by 7:14 AM. The fire primarily affected wooden stilt houses in the coastal village, damaging over 30 homes and displacing numerous families.
Emergency Response
The firefighting operation involved 16 firefighters equipped with two fire rapid tender vehicles and an emergency medical response services vehicle. The area affected by the fire was reported to be around 0.8 hectares. Fortunately, the nearby Restoran Todak Orang Asli, a well-known seafood restaurant frequented by locals and visitors from Singapore, was spared from the flames, thanks to the timely intervention of the fire crews. Tok Batin Awie, the village head, confirmed that all residents were able to escape without casualties.
Community Impact
The fire has left over 30 Orang Asli families displaced, highlighting the vulnerability of the Seletar community, who traditionally inhabit this floating settlement. This settlement is not only a unique cultural landmark in south Johor but also a vital part of the local economy, with the seafood restaurant serving as a significant draw for both locals and tourists.
Official Statements
Pasir Gudang Fire and Rescue Station operations commander Mohd Subri Md Isa stated that the fire was reported early in the morning and emphasized that there were no casualties. He noted the swift response of the firefighting team, which played a crucial role in preventing the fire from spreading further.
Criticism & Opposition
While there have been no formal criticisms reported regarding the fire response, the incident raises concerns about fire safety measures in vulnerable communities like Kampung Orang Asli Teluk Jawa. The destruction of homes in such settlements often leads to calls for better infrastructure and emergency preparedness to protect these communities from future disasters.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The operation is ongoing to contain the fire which is raging in the wooden stilt houses along the coastal village at Jalan Dedaru 11,” — Mohd Subri Md Isa, Operations Commander, Pasir Gudang Fire and Rescue Station
What's Next
In the aftermath of the fire, local authorities may need to assess the damage and provide assistance to the displaced families. Discussions regarding fire safety protocols and community support initiatives are likely to follow as the community begins to recover from this incident.
