TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - A massive fire hit Tidung Island, South Thousand Islands regency on Thursday, incinerating two hectares of fields in the area of Kampung Baru.
The regency’s fire department chief suspected the fire was ignited by a cigarette butt. “We deployed a unit of fair boat and six firefighters to douse the fire," he said.
Khadafi, a witness, said the fire sent a wave of panic through scores of tourists on the island, who feared it would spread to their hotels.
"Some of the tourists even helped extinguish the fire with the locals, using makeshift tools," said Khadafi.
Farjoko said that was no casualty in the incident. He called on people to be more careful when ditching their cigarette butts, particularly in the present drought season.
"We will hold a fire response simulation for the residents of Thousand Islands. Therefore, they can help cope with fire," he said.
ROBBY IRFANY MAQOMA
