The incident, which occurred at 1am yesterday, resulted in the destruction of the health clinic and its temporary quarters.

The Malaysian Family Medicine Specialists Association (FMS) is holding a donation drive until March 15. The funds will later be channelled to the clinic through the Sabah health department.

“The designated FMS representative at the clinic will ensure the funds are utilised prudently for the clinic, including acquiring basic equipment such as chairs, fans and medical devices.

“The funds may also be used for the staff’s welfare, as some were displaced due to the damaged quarters,” FMS president Dr Nor Hazlin Talib told FMT.

Yesterday, Sinar Harian reported that the Beluran fire and rescue department was alerted to the fire at 1.08am.

The clinic was already fully engulfed in flames by the time firemen arrived as it was 215km away from the nearest fire station. There were no casualties.

Timothy Cheng, vice-chairman of the Malaysian Medical Association’s Section for House Officers, Medical Officers and Specialists (Schomos), said the clinic’s destruction will affect services to about 3,000 residents.

He also said the clinic’s staff have been temporarily moved to the Telupid health clinic, which is about 180km away.

“Despite the clinic’s destruction, we are confident that, as health ministry staff, they will persevere and continue their services, which will be provided in nearby community halls while awaiting the reconstruction of the clinic,” Nor Hazlin said.

FMT has reached out to health minister Dzulkefly Ahmad for comment.