More than 100 housing units were destroyed in a blaze in Kampung Cenderamata 2, Likas leaving more than 1,000 villagers homeless on Tuesday afternoon (24 July).

The fire was believed to have started from a house. The blaze spread quickly as the houses were built close to each other.

District fire and rescue chief Hamsah Isnurdini said the department received a distress call at 2.17pm and deployed five fire-engines with 41 firefighters to the village.

"Upon arrival, about 10 houses were already on fire and the blaze spread to nearby areas swiftly. Firefighters were also facing challenges to put out the fire as the houses were very close to one another and the walkway was very narrow" he said.

Kota Kinabalu Assistant Fire Superintendent Zico Mojib said 46 firemen from the Lintas headquarters were dispatched to the squatter settlement, located by the riverside after a distress call was received at 2.17pm.

He said 150 units were gutted, adding that the flames were contained by 3pm and fully extinguished about 52 minutes later.

According to the Persatuan Mesra Alam Sekitar Sabah (MASesa), goods such as clothing, bedding, food and drinks, toiletries and other basic necessities can be sent directly to the City mosque until Sunday, 29 July. For those who wish to donate or to find out more about this, you may contact Noraiza Mohd Noor on 0143502600 or Anne Jamin (Chief of Program Coordinator MASesa) on 0168270310.

Property Hunter has acknowledged several good Samaritans out there. As of writing this article, Parti Warisan Sabah is also initiated a flash donation for the victims. For those who wish to help can channel their donation to Parti Warisan Sabah, Public Bank 320-764-2031. The amount collected will be used to help the victims.