KUCHING: Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang has come forward to offer crucial assistance to families affected by the devastating fire that engulfed homes at Haji Baki.
Lo who visited the scene of the fire on Friday (March 22) said four families who lost their homes have received support from the Housing Commission.
Under this assistance programme, the families are provided rental aid amounting to RM250 each, with RM200 covered by the Sarawak government and the remaining RM50 contributed by the victims themselves.
In a statement, Lo said this aid is intended to alleviate their burden as they await the reconstruction of their homes.
During his return visit to the village on Saturday (March 23), Lo commended the collective effort from various quarters in extending aid to the affected families.
Expressing heartfelt sympathy to those affected by the morning fire, which consumed seven houses, some partially, Lo urged the affected families to remain resilient in the face of adversity.
In a bid to support the rebuilding process, funds have been allocated by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah, who is Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) chairman, to reconstruct the four completely razed houses, with each unit valued at RM70,000.
Additionally, the Sarawak government has pledged assistance to repair the partially damaged houses.
The Welfare Department has also stepped in to provide essential items such as mattresses and blankets to the affected families.
In addition, the Sarawak Foundation is extending support to students through vouchers, while the Civil Defence Force (APM) has contributed basic necessities and food items.
Lo highlighted the contributions from the Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Batu Kitang Youth team, who have donated appliances and provided food for Sahur, underscoring the importance of community solidarity during times of crisis.
He appealed for continued support from the community, urging individuals to lend a helping hand by donating food, clothing, or any other forms of assistance to ease the plight of the affected families during this difficult period.
