Kota kinabalu: Fire victims in three villages in Numbak have been granted permission to rebuild their homes, as announced by Kota Kinabalu City Hall Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Sabin Samitah. The initiative is being undertaken by the Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) in collaboration with the state government to reorganize the area, ensuring that homes can be reconstructed according to designated plots.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the site in question was initially a resettlement area for individuals relocated from the Royal Malaysian Navy zone. The City Hall and the state government are now working to ensure that only eligible residents are allowed to reconstruct their homes within the organized plots. Mayor Dr Sabin emphasized the importance of eligibility and proper allocation of plots to avoid conflicts.

Efforts are underway by the DBKK to prepare for this rebuilding phase, which includes conducting inspections and measurements of the area. This is to prevent any potential disputes over the land plots. "We are currently making preparations, conducting inspections, and taking measurements to ensure no disputes arise over the site," Dr Sabin stated. He further mentioned that they are reviewing the list of people affected by the fire and those originally meant to occupy the area, noting that unauthorized individuals from outside the area had previously built homes without permission.

In a gesture of support, Sabah Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman visited the victims at the Damai Multipurpose Hall, where he provided cash and goods to 110 heads of households affected by the devastating fire. The fire, which occurred on August 30, resulted in the destruction of around 200 stilt houses and claimed the lives of three individuals.