By DayakDaily Team
SIBU, July 22: The public has been urged to refrain from engaging in a blame game following the fire that razed a row of shophouses along Jalan Khoo Peng Loong here, and instead allow the authorities to carry out a thorough investigation while extending support to those affected.
Deputy Minister for Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang said the immediate priority is to ensure that the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) completes its operations, including investigations to determine the cause of the blaze.
“We need support, prayers and encouragement from all quarters, especially for the owners of the affected premises.
“This is not the time to point fingers, assign blame or politicise an unfortunate incident such as this,” he said when met during a visit to the fire site today as reported by TVS.
Tiang also expressed his appreciation to firefighters who worked tirelessly for hours to contain the blaze, as well as members of the local community who mobilised seven privately owned skylifts to assist firefighting efforts.
“Contributions of food, beverages, diesel and petrol from various parties also played an important role in ensuring operations at the scene proceeded smoothly,” he said.
According to Tiang, the fire is believed to have originated on the upper floor of a shop lot at one end of the row before spreading rapidly through the roof structure, which was constructed using wooden trusses typical of older buildings.
He added that the strong sense of solidarity displayed by the people of Sibu in assisting both victims and emergency responders reflected a spirit of unity that should continue to be fostered, particularly as Sarawakians mark Sarawak Day today. — DayakDaily
