March 12, 2025 | New Straits Times |
An uncontrollable peat fire at Kampung Cenderawasih has destroyed 16.2 hectares of pineapple farms, causing losses exceeding RM150,000. The fire, which started about a week ago, has been difficult to control due to strong winds and dry conditions, challenging the efforts of 30 firefighters on-site.
Musa Mohamed, a local farmer, reported that around 6,000 pineapple plants on his farm were destroyed, resulting in personal losses of RM19,000. He has operated the farm for five years and noted this is the second time a forest fire has damaged his crops.
Another farmer, Mohd Anas Razali, lost approximately 2,000 pineapple plants, estimating his losses at RM13,000. He expressed concern over missing the entire harvest season due to the damage.
To prevent further spread, two excavators have been used to dig trenches around the affected areas. According to Abdul Halim Abdul Latif, head of Kampung Cenderawasih’s agriculture bureau, these measures aim to contain the fire.
The fire at Kampung Cenderawasih and nearby Palma Valley has so far razed a total of 94 hectares of land. Hot weather and strong winds continue to complicate firefighting efforts and have raised concerns among local farmers about future crop losses.
