BACHOK: An elderly tailor in Kampung Jelawat here lost more than RM100,000 when his home was destroyed in an early morning blaze yesterday.
Mat Hussin Mohamad, who sews traditional Malay garments and batik shirts, today (June 3) said 15 pieces of cloth belonging to his customers, meant to be used for Hari Raya Aidiladha in two weeks, were also destroyed.
"We were sleeping when he heard an explosion in the back of the house.
"The explosion came from one of my motorcycles. The fire was spreading fast, so we got out quickly."
He said this at his home behind SK Jelawat.
Mat Hussin said that in addition to the house being destroyed, he also lost two motorcycles and five sewing machines, which had been his source of income since he was 19.
"Fortunately, my customers are understanding and not angry. Most are my regular customers."
Bachok Fire and Rescue Department chief Ahmad Ridhuan Mohamad Ghazali, said they received a call about the incident at 5.22 am.
"The fire was brought under control by 5.39am. The cause of the fire is under investigation."