Dr Annuar Rapaee
SIBU: Hasty efforts by some Kampung Datu fire victims to rebuild their gutted houses without proper planning would spell complications and not be conducive for living.
Nangka assemblyman Dr Annuar Rapaee warned yesterday that this is because the houses would be built too close to each other and pose a hazard.
He advised those who lost their homes in the fire last month to be patient as discussions would be held after Hari Raya Aidilfitri to find a win-win solution.
“Otherwise, if they start rebuilding their houses without proper planning, everything will go back to square one as before the fire where houses were built close to each other and this could be dangerous.
“Please don’t rush into things as this could lead to complications. We will meet up with the land owners or their representatives after the festive celebration to hear their concerns and views. Whatever decision later on would be in their best interests,” Dr Annuar told reporters yesterday.
He was commenting on how several Kampung Datu fire victims had bulldozed their way through the charred remains of their houses in an attempt to rebuild.
Dr Annuar pointed out that development in the area would need to take into consideration those affected and how it could improve things for them.
He called on those who have started rebuilding work such as levelling the site to view the situation in a more holistic manner.
Although the initial plan was to resettle Kampung Datu villagers in Kampung Datu Baru, Dr Annuar noted some of the villagers had different opinions.
He said there are 17 lots in dispute among the families, adding that this needed to be settled before rebuilding could
begin.
“There is no discussion yet, so don’t make any decision.”
On those having problems getting their children to school because they are staying in Rantau Panjang, he said parents had been asked to register children needing such help.
“But none mentioned that they required transportation for their children. Therefore, I urge those needing transportation to come forward and register with us,?he said.
The fire on June 19 left over 500 people homeless.