KOTA KINABALU: The National Consumer Foundation Malaysia said the federal government and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim responded quickly to aid fire victims in Kampung Bahagia, Sandakan.
The foundation’s Sabah chapter chairman, David Chan, said Anwar visited the fire site promptly and that the government gave immediate financial aid and essential support to affected families.
“The government also moved to speed up the replacement of identity cards and other official documents destroyed in the fire,” he said
Chan said the foundation urged relevant agencies to coordinate aid distribution so that it remains transparent and fair, and reaches all verified victims quickly.
He said authorities should consider long-term steps such as safer housing plans, improved fire-prevention infrastructure, and stronger emergency preparedness in high-risk communities.
As of noon on Thursday, 1,912 registered victims from 385 households were staying in eight temporary relief centres opened after the April 19 fire. Earlier reports said about 9,000 people were affected by the fire.
