KUCHING: A video of two candidates contesting in the Stampin seat in the 15th general election (GE15), arguing about water supply during the fire incident at 3rd Mile Maong Bazaar – has been making its rounds on the social media since yesterday.
It started with Sarawak Dap chairman Chong Chieng Jen, approaching Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) candidate Lo Khere Chiang, urging the latter to stop doing Faecbook Live at the fire scene but to pull more resources to put out the fire.
Lo, who is also the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman, however, insisted that the fire and rescue department as well as the firefighters would know how to handle the incident.
He went on to advise Chong that “since you (Chong) do not know how to extinguish the fire, leave it to the firemen”, while patting his opponent’s shoulder.
The argument got heated when Chong accused Lo for not doing his job as the MPP chairman and Batu Kitang assemblyman – as the residents claimed the firemen couldn’t find any hydrant near the fire scene.
Although Lo tried to not to argue further, by saying “it is not the time to question this, it is too late”, Chong continues to put the blame on Lo, who is also part of the government.
This prompted Lo to fire back Chong by questioning; “How many terms have you been elected as a member of parliament (MP) and state assemblyman, which also cover this area? Why didn’t you raise the issue before this?”
Chong, who is defending his Stampin parliamentary seat; is also the Kota Sentosa assemblyman.
The one-minute and 30-second video also circulated widely via WhatsApp; sparking a war of words between supporters from both candidates.
Meanwhile, some Facebook users have found the argument to be “amusing” and “childish” – just for show, especially during the election campaign period.
Chuen Liang who commented on the video on Facebook, advised the two candidates, who are also elected as the state assemblymen in the urban areas, “to talk less and do more”.
Vincent Chung opined that there was nothing to argue about and let the firemen do their job.
Meanwhile, Savio Yoh jokingly said that the firemen also need to put out the “fire” (heated argument) between the two candidates here (near the fire scene).
Another Facebook user has expressed disappointment on the two candidates, for arguing and blaming each other – as both should bear the responsibilities.
John Aluk in a comment said “Come on lah… there’s so many other things that need to be resolved such as drainage systems to avoid flash floods, poor road systems and other people’s matters, etc.
“I am not siding or against any side/party… but just do what it’s supposed to be done. Don’t just talk or start pinpointing each other when a problem occurs.”
A fire and rescue department spokesman later confirmed that there was no issue with the water supply or hydrant.
He explained that the water supply was disrupted for a while due to the strong water pressure; while the fire didn’t spread further.
He added that about 50 per cent of the second floor of the shoplot was affected in the fire incident.
