LABUAN, 24 March- A 53-year-old man died in a fire in Kampung Lubok Temiang, Simpang Mat Isa, early this morning.

According to the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM) Labuan, the incident involved a house measuring 30 by 20 square feet, which was destroyed in the fire.

"The fire department received a call at 2:20 AM. A total of 21 personnel along with fire engines were dispatched to the location about eight minutes later," JBPM said.

"Upon arrival at the scene, the Operation Outreach Team (PKO) of the fire department found an unconscious victim outside the burning house," it said.

"The victim was confirmed dead by Labuan Hospital. The operation was brought under control around 3:00 AM," it added.

According to a witness, he heard an explosion before the fire broke out.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.