TAWAU FIRE: HERRIZ WAS SOUND ASLEEP - AUNT

TAWAU, Oct 27 (Bernama) -- Five-year-old Putra Herriz Azmil, who tragically perished in a fire that engulfed 38 homes in Kampung Jati, Batu 5 here, was initially awakened by his mother as the blaze spread.

However, amidst the chaos as family members rushed to save themselves and their belongings, he was mistakenly thought to be safe.

His aunt, Noor Hajijah Matrol, 43, recounted that her nephew was sleeping when his mother woke him and carried him outside. In the confusion, his parents assumed he was already brought to safety.

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“When we realised he was missing, we searched everywhere but couldn’t find him,” she told Bernama, adding that Putra Herriz will be laid to rest at Batu 4 Muslim Cemetery after forensic procedures are completed.

Noor Hajijah added that all 13 family members were at home during the incident, some of whom were sound asleep. The fire erupted during a power outage caused by a storm and heavy rain.

Another victim, Ansar Mohd Suri, 56, expressed that he felt restless that night and couldn’t sleep.  When he heard his neighbours shouting about the blaze he rushed to get his family out.

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 Having lived in the area for over a decade, Ansar said he is grateful his family survived and views the event as a test of faith.

Meanwhile, Balung assemblyman Datuk Hamild Awang, who visited the fire site, said the Welfare Department is updating the number of affected victims.

"As of 2 pm today, 48 household heads have registered with the department.

"The fire broke out at 12.45 am and I have been informed that it may have been caused by a candle, as the power supply was disrupted earlier that evening.

“I urge the disaster committee to make prompt decisions regarding temporary housing for the victims," he said, adding that the Village Development and Security Committee has been instructed to assist affected residents, including providing food.

-- BERNAMA