TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - A fire broke out on Tidung Island, South Thousand Islands district yesterday. The fire was spotted at 5.30 p.m. and extinguished by 7.30 p.m., destroying two hectares of fields in Kampung Baru.

Thousand Islands Fire Chief Farjoko said the cause of the fire was an improperly disposed lit cigarette. "We deployed one fair boat and a crew of six personnel to contain the blaze," said Farjoko earlier today.

Khadafi, 29, an eyewitness at the scene, said there were plenty of holidaymakers on Tidung Island who were panicking when the fire began to move towards the populated areas where they were staying. "Some rushed to help the locals to contain the fire," said Khadafi.

No fatalities reported. "We managed to extinguish the fire 100 meters away from the crowded areas," added Farjoko. He asked the local communities and tourists to properly dispose of their cigarette butts, especially during the dry season.

"We are also going to hold a fire drill for the residents of the Thousand Islands," said Farjoko. "Residents need to be aware of how to properly deal with fires. The island is a tourist attraction, so we need to keep our eyes on it."

ROBBY IRFANY MAQOMA