Two shop operators granted limited access to collapsed Jalan Pahlawan building to retrieve items

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By DayakDaily Team

SIBU, Feb 26: Two shop operators were granted limited permission to re-enter the collapsed building at Jalan Pahlawan under strict supervision to retrieve selected items essential to their businesses, as authorities maintained that public safety remains the overriding priority.

In a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news, Deputy Minister of Housing, Public Health and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang said the authorities’ position has not changed, stressing that the structure is still deemed unsafe and will remain sealed off and closely guarded by police.

“After taking into account various factors, professional advice and safety considerations, a difficult decision was made to allow a limited operation to proceed early this morning,” he told members of the press on Wednesday (Feb 25).

Only the two ground-floor operators were allowed entry, and strictly to the central section of the ground floor. Inspections found that the locks of both premises were in relatively better condition, while access to the upper floors was strictly prohibited.

The operation was carried out under controlled protocols, with the police, the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba), and the Civil Defence Force (APM) stationed on site to ensure full compliance with safety procedures and to prevent any risk to the public.

Both shop owners were required to sign indemnity and liability waiver letters releasing all authorities, including the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) and related government agencies, from any responsibility. Entry into the premises was entirely at their own risk.

“This is a personal matter involving the shop owners, but we remained on site to ensure that public safety was not compromised,” he added, expressing appreciation to the enforcement agencies for their cooperation.

However, he emphasised that no further access will be granted at this time, and the area will continue to be cordoned off and monitored.

Those seeking to submit appeals have been advised to contact SMC chairman Clarence Ting, as matters involving personal belongings must be handled privately.
In a related development, the Pelawan assemblyman said a geotechnical expert will be appointed to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the structural failure, a process expected to take several months.

“Any demolition works will be undertaken by the building owner at their own expense, with liability issues to be determined only after the investigation is concluded,” he added.

Meanwhile, Ting reiterated that transparency remains a priority in managing the case and expressed relief that the controlled retrieval operation proceeded without incident. — DayakDaily

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