Calls for safety checks after homes, shops destroyed in Sibu fires
Commercial and residential property owners and the authorities in Sibu, Sarawak have been urged to put in place safety measures to prevent fire incidents.

Sibu MP Oscar Ling said this after three shoplots in Jalan Market were destroyed in a fire.

“I hope the building owner and relevant authorities here can take appropriate action to ensure the safety of people.

“This can be done by carrying out electrical wire safety assessments and testing, and removing any risks with immediate effect.

“These steps will also protect the safety of the town,” said Ling in a statement.

He added that this was the second time an old shop building had been gutted in a fire along Jalan Market over the last few years.

In the most recent incident that happened at around 8pm on Feb 21, three premises, namely a hair salon, a bakery and a shop selling various types of goods, were destroyed.

Fortunately, there were no reports of casualties.

In Kampung Bahagia Jaya Teku, four houses were also recently destroyed by fire.

Thirty-one people were made homeless after an afternoon blaze razed the four houses in Lorong Bahagia Selatan 4.

No injuries or casualties were reported in the incident, as the occupants escaped to safety.

“I was told the fire was caused by electrical wiring issues,” said Sibu Division Chinese Community Leaders Association president Temenggong Datuk Vincent Lau after presenting a cash donation to the fire victims there.

“Kampung Bahagia Jaya Teku residents should prioritise checking their home’s electrical wiring.

“This precaution is essential as wiring problems can lead to fires,” he added.

Lau said it was vital to check it especially if they had lived there for 15 to 20 years.

He also urged the authorities to address residents’ concerns and improve their living conditions, in addition to providing land for more housing.

“This area, Kampung Bahagia Jaya Teku, is a resettlement area.

“There have been two or three flood incidents in the past year.

“I hope the authorities will take steps to resolve the issues faced by residents,” he added.

On the cash donation, Lau said the Sibu Division Chinese Community Leaders Association provided the funds to help victims purchase essential food items.

“I encourage other organisations to extend their support to the victims,” he said.
Sabah & Sarawak,Fire,old buildings,Sibu,Oscar Ling
Commercial and residential property owners and the authorities in Sibu, Sarawak have been urged to put in place safety measures to prevent fire incidents.