Century-old Kuantan shoplots destroyed in overnight fire

KUANTAN, Sept 2 — Fire authorities responded to a major incident in the heart of Kuantan's heritage district late yesterday when two pre-war shoplots on Jalan Mahkota caught fire, causing extensive damage to the century-old buildings.

The shophouses, which have stood for over 100 years, were completely destroyed by the flames despite rapid response from local fire brigades. Firefighting operations extended well into the evening as crews worked to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to adjacent properties in the residential and commercial area.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the relevant authorities. Preliminary assessments indicate the structures sustained total losses, though no immediate reports of casualties were confirmed. The incident underscores concerns about fire safety in older commercial districts across Malaysia's heritage-rich towns.

Local residents expressed alarm at the rapid spread of the fire through the wooden structures, with some noting the challenges faced by emergency services in tackling blazes in densely packed pre-war buildings. Jalan Mahkota, a historic thoroughfare in Kuantan, is home to numerous shophouses of significant architectural and cultural value.