Sarawak Leader Emphasizes Immediate Support for Families Affected by Fire Incidents
BINTANGOR, SARAWAK – In a recent statement, Datuk Abdullah Saidol, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information, and UKAS), has proposed that immediate temporary housing assistance be extended to fire victims in Sarawak, especially those who have lost their homes in tragic incidents. He highlighted the importance of providing temporary shelter solutions to ensure that affected families, particularly those with children, can have a safe place to stay while their homes are rebuilt.
Immediate Aid for Fire Victims Through Temporary Housing
Abdullah suggested that the Social Welfare Department (JKM) and other relevant agencies work together to provide temporary housing for fire victims. He proposed that this could include renting temporary housing for victims while waiting for the reconstruction of their homes to be completed.
“A fire incident is an unwanted tragedy. Unfortunately, for victims who have large families, they must face a big challenge, especially the children who are still in school,” said Abdullah during his visit to Rumah Julia, Muara Bunut Bintangor, where he handed over donations to fire victims.
He emphasized the importance of incorporating temporary housing assistance into the broader framework of government aid available to disaster-affected individuals. This, according to him, would ensure that families are not left in prolonged uncertainty after such devastating events.
Awareness of Financial Aid for House Reconstruction Needs to be Raised
In addition to advocating for temporary housing, Abdullah highlighted the need to raise awareness about the RM70,000 financial assistance available for house reconstruction for fire victims. This aid, managed by the State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC), is critical in helping families rebuild their homes.
“It is vital that this aid is known to the community. Many affected residents are still unaware of the financial assistance available for rebuilding their homes destroyed by fire,” he added.
To address this, Abdullah called on relevant agencies to organize roadshows and community engagement sessions, particularly targeting villages, longhouses, and rural areas where information dissemination can be challenging. He stressed that increasing awareness and accessibility to these aids could significantly improve the lives of those affected by fire incidents.
Safety Measures and Fire Prevention Initiatives Urged for Longhouses
Abdullah also recommended additional fire safety measures for longhouses, which are more vulnerable due to their wooden structures and close-knit design. He proposed regular wiring inspections at older longhouses and the provision of portable fire extinguishers in every ‘pintu’ (door) of the longhouses to facilitate early intervention in case of fire.
“Fire safety measures need to be prioritized in longhouses to reduce the risk and impact of fire incidents,” Abdullah said.
He also supported the Village Development and Security Committee’s (JKKK) suggestion to establish a Bomba Volunteer Club, which would enhance local community involvement in fire prevention and safety efforts. This initiative aims to empower residents with the knowledge and tools needed to protect their homes and families from fire hazards.
Collaborative Efforts to Support Fire Victims
During the donation ceremony, Abdullah, alongside Tanjung Manis MP Yusuf Abdul Wahab, distributed aid to ease the burden of the fire victims. They provided essential items, including food aid and basic necessities, further supported by initial contributions from JKM and the Petronas Foundation.
Abdullah’s proactive approach highlights the need for a comprehensive and community-focused strategy to address fire incidents in Sarawak. His proposals for temporary housing aid, increased awareness of financial assistance, and enhanced safety measures underline his commitment to improving the lives of those affected by such tragedies.