Kampung Hilir fire victims offered temporary shelter at Rantau Panjang flats

SIBU: The fire victims from Kampung Hilir have been offered temporary accommodation at the Rantau Panjang flats here as the first option.

Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee said a meeting was held with the heads of households to discuss the offer.

“If they choose not to stay in Rantau Panjang, their second option is to find a rental house. In the long term, I will discuss with the government about providing them housing in Kemuyang,” he said  when met by reporters last night during a visit to the temporary relief centre at Surau Darul Ma’wa, which currently shelters 69 victims here (Sept 23).

Dr Annuar said that some of the affected families had previously been advised to register for housing in Kemuyang, especially those living near the riverbanks.

Dr Annuar speaks to reporters.

He said houses are available for purchase in Kemuyang, and securing them is now a priority for disaster victims.

Meanwhile, on the cash donations, Dr Annuar said all contributions should be handled by the penghulu before being transferred to the Sibu Division Disaster Management Committee Fund (SDMC), which is managed by the Sibu Resident’s Office.

He stressed that no other individuals are authorised to collect donations for the victims, though family and friends may still donate directly to those affected at their discretion.

“For official donations, please contribute through the committee. Online donations can be made via the SDMC Sibu account at CIMB Bank, account number 8601276029,” he added.

Dr Annuar said that the Nangka Service Centre has allocated RM35,000 in donations for the 134 fire victims.

Dr Annuar (right) during his visit to the relief centre at Surau Darul Ma’wa.