Pengerang peatland fire: 80.5 percent of blaze extinguished

Firefighting teams have successfully extinguished 80.5 percent of a peatland fire in Pengerang, Johor. As of midday, 41.1 hectares of the total 51.4 hectares affected at the Punggai-Sebana Cove bypass road have been put out.

The operation is divided into two sectors. Sector B, covering 15.8 hectares, has been completely extinguished and remains under continuous monitoring to prevent reignition. In Sector A, which spans 35.6 hectares, 25.3 hectares have been extinguished, leaving 10.3 hectares still requiring action.

The Johor Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) is conducting 24-hour operations, utilizing drones for monitoring, water tankers, and portable pumps. The mission involves 36 JBPM personnel, supported by the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM), Ranhill SAJ, and other agencies.

Responders face significant challenges, including hot and dry weather, strong winds that spread embers through peat layers, narrow access routes, soft soil, and a lack of nearby open water sources. Thick smoke has also been reported along the bypass road, reducing visibility for motorists.