Chew Jetty unaffected by fire 20m away, says Penang CM

George Town's Chew Jetty waterfront community remained unscathed by this morning's fire, which ignited about 20 metres away from the popular seaside area. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, during a visit to the scene, confirmed that Chew Jetty itself was not affected nor did it play a part in the incident. Located roughly 20 meters from the fire site, the chief minister reported that six premises, comprising workshops, a carpentry business, and other establishments, were caught in the blaze, which was reported around 1am.

The fire was swiftly extinguished by the Penang Fire and Rescue Department, with the support of volunteer firefighters. Efforts to fully conclude the operation, including the removal of timber and other materials from the site, are ongoing. The timber, consisting of construction materials, requires a contractor for its removal to enable the Fire and Rescue Department to complete its task.

The land is owned by the state government, while the premises were believed to be occupied by tenants or those holding Temporary Occupation Licences (TOL). The affected property owners may have an interest in rebuilding their premises, and the state government has offered assistance in this endeavor. No fatalities or injuries were reported.

The Penang Fire and Rescue Department's prompt response successfully prevented the fire, which involved five premises, from spreading to a nearby petrol station and residential units.