SEVENTEEN stilt houses in Kampung Bangau-Bangau, Semporna were destroyed in a fire this morning.

Sabah Fire and Rescue Operations Centre said an emergency call was received at about 9.20am and firefighters from the Semporna and Kunak fire stations were despatched to the scene.

“The 17 non-permanent stilt houses were burnt down,” he said in a statement today.

“The firefighters managed to bring the fire under control and prevent it from spreading.

“They had some difficulties in fighting the blaze because the water was shallow.

“They had to walk 150m from their boats and used seawater to put out the fire. The operation ended at 11.15am.”

No injuries or casualties were reported in the incident. The cause of the fire is still being investigated. – Bernama, January 19, 2023.