A devastating fire broke out at the popular Resorts World Genting in Genting Highlands, Malaysia, on June 14, sending shockwaves of panic among tourists and locals alike. Fortunately, thanks to the swift response of the Pahang Fire and Rescue Department, the blaze was brought under control, and no casualties were reported.
According to eyewitnesses, the fire started at around 4:30 pm on the second floor of the four-story SkyAvenue shopping mall, before spreading to the fourth floor. The flames and thick, black smoke billowed out of the building, causing widespread alarm among those in the vicinity. Witnesses described scenes of chaos, with people screaming and running for their lives.
Tourist Hafiz Abdul Halim, 42, who was visiting the mall with his wife, recounted the terrifying experience to Bernama news agency. “We obviously panicked when we heard people screaming here and there,” he said. “The police on duty instructed those inside the mall to evacuate and head for safer locations.”
Restaurant assistant Adrian Wong, 32, who was also at the scene, corroborated Halim’s account, stating that everyone managed to escape safely. “They vacated and left everything to save themselves. Actually, the fire occurred on the first floor of the building, but for safety purposes, we were asked to leave,” Wong said.
Local authorities reported that at least 5,000 people were evacuated from the area, with the fire department responding promptly to extinguish the flames. The fire was finally brought under control by 6:30 pm.
In a statement, Genting Malaysia, the company that operates Resorts World Genting, confirmed that the evacuation was carried out immediately to ensure the safety of the public. “Our fire units responded promptly to extinguish the fire,” the company said.
Fortunately, the fire was contained to the SkyAvenue shopping mall, and all other areas of Resorts World Genting were unaffected. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety and emergency preparedness in public spaces.
As the investigation into the cause of the fire continues, authorities and resort management are breathing a sigh of relief that no lives were lost in the incident. The swift response of the emergency services and the cooperation of the public undoubtedly played a crucial role in preventing a potentially catastrophic outcome.