Elderly man dies after becoming trapped in century-old Kelantan house fire

A 66-year-old RELA volunteer, Kong Choo Hock, tragically lost his life after becoming trapped within a fire that reduced his century-old ancestral home to ashes in Kampung Gok Kapur, Kota Bharu. The incident occurred last night, with the victim reportedly found crouched in the bathroom on the ground floor, clutching a water container.

Mohd Fadhlizil Ikram Ahmad Pauzi, assistant director of Kelantan Fire and Rescue Department, stated that the cause of death was likely due to inhaling heavy smoke. He also revealed that the victim, who lived alone, did not suffer from any serious burn injuries. According to Pauzi, the man attempted to escape but was unable to do so as the rear door remained locked. It is believed that Kong decided to seek refuge in the bathroom, considering it a safer place.

Wee Suey See, Kong's relative at age 49, recounted that the victim returned home from work around 5 pm and prepared dinner. Later, relatives living in the back of the house heard a small explosion and rushed upstairs to investigate. Upon opening the window, they saw the house engulfed in flames. In a panicked state, they knocked on the door, but Kong only gave a brief response before becoming silent.

Suey See hurriedly left Pengkalan Chepa to reach the scene after hearing about the fire via his family's WhatsApp group. He mentioned that Kong lived alone in his late parents' ancestral home, which had been without electricity for an extended period. Wee noted that the victim was in good health and remained active, continuing to work and serve as a RELA member.

The cause of the fire remains undetermined, with ongoing investigations underway. Kong's body was subsequently handed over to the police for further procedures.