MCCCI to assist business owners of Jalan Kingsway fire with insurance claims
MIRI: The Miri Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry ( MCCCI) will meet with all shop owners and business operators affected by Sunday’s fire at Jalan Kingsway to discuss insurance compensation and other related issues.
MCCCI chairman Lee Khoi Yun revealed that the meeting will focus on assisting the shop owners and business operators in claiming insurance and to help them get their business up- andrunning as soon as possible.
The meeting, to be held on June 28 at MCCCI’s meeting room, will also invite representatives from Resident’s Office, District Office, Fire and Rescue Department ( Bomba), and elected representatives including Senadin assemblyman Datuk Lee Kim Shin to discuss on the matters related to fire incident.
Khoi Yun, who visited the site of the fire yesterday, also said the incident had brought to light safety precautions which may have been neglected.
“Before its major rebuilding plan, there were two fire incidents which happened here and after the completion of the rebuilding project in 2005, things have been quite smooth and as usual, people started to neglect the necessary safety precautions that are vital to protect their property.
“There could be many factors contributing to the fire. However, it is imperative to always remind oneself to be cautious when using electrical appliances as well as constantly checking on electrical wiring,” he told reporters.
The fire on Sunday destroyed a departmental store and three other shops, but did not result in any casualties.
Two teams of 18 firefighters from Miri and Lopeng fire stations were despatched to the scene following a distress call at 12.25pm.
Miri Bomba chief Law Poh Kiong said firemen were able to prevent the flames from spreading to other shops along the affected row.
“There are over 10 shops in the affected row but fast action by the firefighters saved the rest from being destroyed. Other rows of shophouses in the vicinity were also not affected by the fire,” said Law.
During the fire, it was also alleged that several members of the public had looted items from the departmental store.
On this, Khoi Yun said he was deeply disappointed with the irresponsible action of those who took advantage of the situation to loot the store.
“During such an emergency moment like this, the people should have given their cooperation with Bomba and police by staying clear of the site.
“It reflects heavily on the people’s mentality and we are deeply concerned with it,” he said.
Meanwhile, a check yesterday found that most of the affected business operators had fire insurance coverage and were seeking assistance from the relevant agencies to expedite the payout process.