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KUCHING, Feb 20 – A devastating fire at Lorong 10, Kampung Tabuan Dayak on the night of Feb 16 left 28 individuals from six families homeless. In response, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng swiftly mobilised relief efforts to aid the affected residents.
Immediate Response and Leadership
Upon receiving news of the tragedy, Mayor Wee immediately visited the site to assess the situation and coordinate assistance. He worked closely with volunteers, demonstrating strong leadership in ensuring an organised and efficient relief effort. His hands-on approach helped streamline rescue operations, resource distribution, and victim registration.
Sih Hua Tong and his team were among the first responders, offering comfort and support. The Malaysian Civil Defense Force (APM) also played a crucial role by setting up emergency shelters and providing essential supplies. Their swift action ensured that all affected individuals were registered and properly cared for.
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Community and Government Support
City councillors Roy Mason and Mok Chong Ping, alongside village chief KK Dorothy, TR Diana John actively coordinated resettlement efforts. The Batu Lintang Caring Committee, Tiong Hock Kiong Temple chairman Kho Kee Hua, and Batu Lintang SUPP Youth Chief John Wong mobilised emergency supplies, delivering drinking water and food to the victims.
All Saints’ Church generously opened its hall to provide temporary shelter, ensuring no family was left without a safe place to stay. Additionally, Regal Group Tropic City Enrichment Hub extended their support by offering alternative housing options.
Ensuring Continuity for Families
Mayor Wee personally accompanied the children of the affected families to purchase school uniforms, shoes, and stationery, ensuring their education would not be disrupted. MBKS also assisted in relocating the victims to their newly rented homes, providing daily essentials like detergent, toiletries, and household necessities.
Ongoing Investigations and Future Support
Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire. Meanwhile, MBKS has established a disaster relief committee to oversee continued support and ensure affected families can rebuild their lives as soon as possible.
Mayor Wee expressed his gratitude to various agencies and individuals, including the police, Sarawak Welfare Department, Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba), Sarawak Energy, All Saints’ Church, community leaders, MBKS councillors, and Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Batu Lintang Branch.
“Their collective efforts reflect the Sarawakian spirit of unity and compassion,” he said. He reaffirmed MBKS’s commitment to supporting the community during times of crisis, ensuring that affected families receive the necessary aid.