Gas Leak Suspected as Cause of Blaze in Batam’s Mitra Raya 2

A fire broke out at ‘Jus Kita’ café in Mitra Raya 2, Batam Center, on Monday, January 20, 2025, at approximately 11:20 AM WIB. The blaze, allegedly triggered by a gas leak, severely damaged the establishment and injured two employees, who suffered burns and glass-related injuries. Authorities are currently investigating the incident to determine whether negligence played a role.

A major fire engulfed Jus Kita café, a popular fruit juice establishment, in Mitra Raya 2, Batam Center. The fire reportedly began shortly after the café opened, causing panic among staff and nearby businesses. Witnesses claimed they heard a loud explosion moments before flames rapidly spread throughout the ground floor. The blaze was eventually contained by emergency responders, including firefighters and police.

Eyewitnesses reported that the fire erupted shortly after the café opened at 10:00 AM WIB. “Shortly after they opened, we heard an explosion, followed by flames appearing inside.” A nearby shop assistant stated.
Two employees, identified as Irham and Yajid, sustained burn injuries while attempting to replace a gas cylinder in the kitchen. The fire quickly spread, damaging the front glass partition, kitchen appliances, and ceiling fans. Customers and nearby shop workers evacuated the premises immediately as thick smoke filled the area.

Emergency responders, including firefighters, police, and local security forces, arrived at the scene to battle the flames. However, the firefighting effort was delayed due to active electrical wiring, posing an additional hazard to responders. Despite the challenges, the fire was successfully extinguished within an hour, preventing further damage to adjacent buildings. The café was left severely damaged, with charred walls, destroyed furniture, and a waterlogged floor from the firefighting efforts.

Local authorities suspect the fire was likely caused by a gas leak, which ignited when an active stove came into contact with leaked fumes. Preliminary findings suggest that the explosion occurred while employees were replacing a gas cylinder, a routine task that may not have been carried out with proper safety measures. Investigators are currently reviewing fire safety compliance at the establishment and questioning witnesses to determine whether negligence contributed to the disaster.

While no fatalities were reported, the financial impact of the fire is significant. The café’s owners have yet to release an official statement, but initial damage assessments estimate losses exceeding SGD 8,300 (IDR 100 million). The café remains closed indefinitely, and it is unclear whether operations will resume at the same location. Employees have also been temporarily displaced as the business assesses its next steps.

This incident underscores the importance of fire safety regulations in Batam’s rapidly growing commercial sector. As more hospitality and retail businesses expand in the region, stricter enforcement of fire safety standards will be crucial in preventing similar tragedies. This event serves as a warning for businesses handling gas-powered equipment to implement proper safety measures and training. It also highlights the need for improved emergency response protocols in commercial establishments to ensure the safety of employees and customers alike.

Sources: Tribun Batam, Own Talk (2025)

Keywords: Batam Café Fire, ‘Jus Kita’ Destroyed, Two Employees Injured