More than 500 people left homeless after a devastating fire in Kampung Cempaka, Likas, will receive financial assistance of RM1,300 from the state government and Yayasan Sabah.

RM1,000 provided by the Sabah government and an additional RM300 from Yayasan Sabah. 

The support is part of the state’s efforts to ease the burden on families who lost their homes.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the cash aid is part of the government commitment to ensuring the well-being of those affected, particularly during the fasting month.

“Today, I had the opportunity to visit the fire victims in Kampung Cempaka, Likas. We are deeply concerned, and as a people-centric government, we have provided RM1,300 in financial aid to each affected household, with RM1,000 coming from the state government and RM300 from Yayasan Sabah,” he said after visiting the fire victims at the Likas Multipurpose Hall on Monday.

“We understand the hardship and discomfort faced by the victims, especially during this fasting month. That is why the government, along with relevant agencies, will strive to find the best way to assist them moving forward.”

The fire broke out in the early hours of Saturday, displacing 511 residents from 91 families based on the registered victims. 

Many lost all their belongings and are now seeking shelter in temporary relief centres.

Two relief centres have been establoished to accommodate the victims, with PPS Likas housing 200 people and PPS Damai sheltering 311. 

The Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) is working with state agencies to discuss long-term assistance for those affected.

Community groups and government agencies have also stepped in to provide food and essential supplies. 

The Community Development Leaders Unit (UPPM) has delivered aid, while the Malaysian Civil Defence Force and the Department of Social Welfare Services have distributed food baskets and ready-to-eat meal packs.

Hajiji said additional supplies, including gas and stoves, have been provided by the Sabah Welfare Foundation, alongside food baskets from Yayasan Sabah.

“The government is deeply concerned about their welfare and will continue working with all relevant agencies to assist them,” he added.

Officials are now looking into further measures to support the victims in the coming weeks. – March 3, 2025