BENTONG: Rising from the ashes of a devastating 2021 blaze, rows of 48 newly rebuilt homes at Kampung Baru Karak stand as a symbol of resilience.
It’s also a testimony of the Malaysian spirit of helping one another in times of misfortune.
The Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, visited the new homes in the Chinese new village yesterday to witness the new beginnings for the residents who now have a place of their own again.
“Congratulations on these new houses,” he said.
The Sultan called on the residents to uphold goodwill and harmony among all communities.
“I hope that this year, we can all celebrate properly, in a spirit of goodwill and harmony among the Chinese community and all other races,” he said.
As the affected families returned in time to usher in the Chinese New Year, the story of how the fire that destroyed their lives, and the people who helped them rebuild their lives, has come to the fore.
It was on Oct 1, 2021, when disaster struck the village with fire destroying 48 wooden houses and eight shoplots, leaving some 300 people homeless.
Helping hands soon emerged, such as former Bentong MPs Tan Sri Liow Tiong Lai of MCA, who led the fire victims’ rebuilding household committee, with Tan Sri Lim Ah Lek as the adviser.
There was also a fundraiser held.
Victims were relocated – some to rented homes, others staying with relatives and friends – while redevelopment and rebuilding works were carried out.
The Sultan expressed gratitude to the state government and agencies involved as well as former Bentong MPs – Lim and Liow.
During his visit, the Sultan shared his observations, noting that while the 48 new units have transformed part of the village, many surrounding houses remain old.
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“I am concerned that this may create the impression of two classes within the community.
“If possible, there should be plans to repair, refurbish or upgrade the existing houses, especially if some are in unsafe condition.”
The Ruler also commended Tan Sri Chan Kong Choy, group executive chairman of FBG Holdings Bhd, who had mobilised his corporate resources to support the reconstruction project.
FBG Holdings deputy chairman Tan Sri Kuan Peng Soon and group executive director Datuk Kong Kam Loong were present yesterday as well.
As for Chan, who described himself as “anak Bentong” (son of Bentong), he shared the joy of the residents who are getting a roof over their head once more.
“I would like to pay back to my hometown which means a lot to me. I think it is our responsibility to do so,” he said.
His company had taken up the coordination of the rebuilding project, providing free professional services since the tragic incident, right until the completion of the project.
And with funds raised from a donation drive, each homeowner was only required to fork out between RM60,000 and RM70,000 for the three-bedroom home.
“I want to thank all the departments for their assistance and support. And of course, Tuanku himself. Tuanku has given us the biggest support,” said Chan.
