Four families affected by a fire that damaged four residential houses in Kampung Main Road, Perai on 7 October 2026, have received immediate financial assistance and been offered an alternative housing option by Penang EXCO for Housing and Environment Dato’ Seri Sundarajoo Somu.
The fire broke out in the early hours of 7 October, leaving several families without secure accommodation and causing them to lose their belongings. Fortunately, all 10 occupants managed to escape safely.
Following the incident, Dato’ Sundarajoo instructed his service centre team for the Perai state constituency, N.16, to visit the affected location and provide immediate assistance while he attended a meeting at KOMTAR.
His team inspected the four affected houses and distributed financial contributions to help the families meet their daily needs. On 8 October, Dato’ Sundarajoo personally visited the site to assess the damage, meet the affected families and listen to the difficulties they were facing. He also provided additional financial assistance to help ease their temporary expenses.
Fire Victims May Qualify for Up to RM10,000 in Assistance
In addition to the immediate financial contributions, Sundarajoo said his team had contacted the District and Land Office to coordinate applications for fire assistance that could amount to RM10,000.
However, the financial aid remains subject to the eligibility requirements and approval of the relevant authorities.
During his visit, Sundarajoo expressed concern over the families’ uncertain housing situation, particularly those with elderly parents and family members requiring additional care and attention.
He emphasised the importance of helping affected residents secure stable accommodation as they work towards rebuilding their lives following the incident.
Rent-to-Own Scheme Offered as Alternative Housing
As part of the effort to address the families’ housing needs, Sundarajoo offered an alternative housing option through the Rent-to-Own Scheme in Mak Mandin, coordinated by the Penang State Housing Board (LPNPP).
Under the proposed scheme, monthly payments would be approximately RM250, with a 15-year ownership period, subject to the stipulated eligibility requirements and approval process. The initiative is intended to provide affected families with an opportunity to obtain more stable and secure housing after losing their homes in the fire.
However, the post did not confirm whether the families had accepted the offer or received approval to participate in the scheme.
Kampung Main Road Redevelopment Also in Focus
Beyond the recent fire, Sundarajoo highlighted that residents of Kampung Main Road had previously faced flooding, raising further concerns about residential safety and living conditions in the area.
He said plans to redevelop Kampung Main Road were also receiving attention, with the hope that the proposed development would provide residents with new homes, better facilities and an improved living environment.
As the state assemblyman for Perai, Sundarajoo reiterated his commitment to addressing residents’ welfare, particularly when they face disasters, housing difficulties and other challenges.
He also expressed appreciation to the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia, the District and Land Office, LPNPP, the N.16 Perai service centre team and other parties involved in assisting the fire victims.
Source: Vanakkam Malaysia, Dato’ Sundarajoo Facebook
