KUALA LUMPUR – The Federal Government has announced immediate compassionate assistance of RM1,500 for families affected by the major fire in Kampung Bahagia, Sandakan, which broke out early Sunday and destroyed around 1,000 homes.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the aid will be coordinated through the Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) under the Prime Minister’s Department, in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA).
He described the incident as one of the most severe fire disasters in the country, adding that his visit to Sabah was to extend support to victims and discuss immediate coordination efforts with Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
“While this is not a long-term solution, it is an immediate measure. I want the assistance to be delivered promptly, as the affected families need assurance,” he told reporters.
Anwar had earlier visited the temporary evacuation centre at the People’s Housing Project (PPR) hall in Taman Batu Sapi and inspected the fire-affected site in Kampung Bahagia. Also present were Hajiji and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak) Datuk Mustapha Sakmud.
The blaze, which occurred in the water village area, razed about 1,000 houses across more than four hectares, leaving hundreds of families displaced.
Separately, Anwar said the Education Ministry has agreed to provide RM300 in immediate assistance to 454 students from 12 schools in the Sandakan area affected by the disaster, to help cover the cost of uniforms, books and other school essentials.
He added that arrangements are being made to ensure affected children return to school as soon as possible, including temporary flexibility on uniform requirements and transport support from evacuation centres if needed.
“I asked some of the students why they were not going to school, and they said they did not have uniforms. For every Malaysian child affected, the government, through the Education Ministry, will provide RM300 so they can quickly purchase uniforms, books and other essentials.
“I do not want the victims to bear additional burdens, and these children must not be left behind in terms of their education,” he said.
Anwar also expressed appreciation to the Sabah state government, district office, relevant agencies and non-governmental organisations for their swift coordination in providing food, clothing, shelter and security assistance.
He said the government would continue prioritising the welfare of all affected individuals on humanitarian grounds, including those who have yet to register for assistance.
“I am also informed that many have not registered due to concerns about possible action being taken against them. I want to assure them that, for now, our priority is their safety and welfare,” he said. – April 22, 2026