Malaysia Fire: Thousands Displaced, Village Destroyed

A large fire destroyed a coastal village in the Sabah state of Malaysia on Sunday (April 19), leaving thousands homeless. According to fire authorities, at least 1,000 homes were destroyed.

The fire broke out in a stilt village in the Sandakan area, home to many of Malaysia's poorest residents. Sandakan police chief George Abd Rakman reported that the disaster affected 9,007 residents.

The Sabah fire department was notified of the fire at 01:32 local time. According to a press release, approximately 1,000 floating homes were completely burned, covering an area of 40 acres. There are no reports of fatalities or injuries.