A SHOCKING video showing what appears to be a building collapse has gone viral on social media since early Friday (Feb 13) morning.
The footage shows significant structural damage to a commercial property in Sarawak with debris scattered across the street.
But did a shophouse really collapse in Sibu, Sarawak
Verdict:
TRUE
A corner unit of a row of shophouses in Jalan Pahlawan, Sibu, collapsed early Friday.
Sibu Municipal Council chairman Clarence Ting advised the public to avoid the shophouses as the structure remains unstable and poses a safety risk and that the incident occurred at about 2.30am.
"We advise the public not to cross the yellow line because this area is unsafe. The building structure is still shifting and, earlier, debris was still falling," he said when met by the media at the scene.
"This is very important for public safety," he added.
Also present was Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang, who was there to review the situation.
Ting said the entire building block was found to have subsided by about three feet, raising concerns over possible structural failure at the base of the building.
He added that the matter had been referred to relevant agencies, including the Public Works Department, for further investigation.
No reports of injuries or fatalities had been received so far.
"We are very grateful that no casualties have been reported," he said.
Following the incident, the council also ordered a restaurant operating within the block, including its open kitchen area, to cease operations immediately, and a closure notice will be issued.
Commenting on the possible impact on nearby buildings or houses, he said this had yet to be determined and would require a detailed technical investigation.
"We will request the relevant technical agency to carry out an investigation, and they will provide a more accurate assessment," he said.
He also urged shophouse owners to report to the council to enable it to gather the necessary information.
