KUALA LUMPUR – Ipoh Timur MP Howard Lee Chuan How has pledged immediate assistance after two separate fire incidents struck his constituency in a single day, leaving several families homeless.
The first blaze occurred around noon in the National Garden residential area in Buntong, destroying six upper-floor units, four of which were occupied, he said in a statement.
Lee, together with the Buntong state assembly representative and their service teams, visited the site to assess the damage and coordinate aid. While a temporary shelter was considered, all affected families have already secured short-term accommodation.
Just hours later, another fire broke out in Kampung Kuala Pari Hilir, Tanjung Rambutan, around 4 pm.
The incident destroyed five connected homes, displacing four families and wiping out most of their belongings. Neighbours were the first to respond, helping evacuate residents before emergency services arrived. The district office has since activated a temporary shelter for the victims.
Lee said his office is working closely with rural administration units and Village Development and Security Committees (JPKK) to ensure proper management of aid, including basic supplies and urgent financial assistance.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and ensure the welfare and resettlement of all affected residents,” he said, while praising the swift action and community spirit shown by local residents.
Authorities are investigating the causes of both fires. – December 29, 2025