By Indun Silong
KUCHING: Two families living in an old cargo container in an isolated area near Jalan Kuap, Mile 10, Jalan Kuching-Serian have been temporarily relocated to a better place.
One family is that of Marikan Abu Seman, his wife and his brother-in-law, while the second family comprises Mohamad Syafik Aizul, his wife Nurul Syafiqah Bujang and two daughters. They had been staying in the container for almost a year.
Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang said efforts to reach the family were made by the Women’s chief of the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Batu 7 branch, Suzzilawati Suhaili.
“Suzzilawati approached the family to get information on their background and sought a room for rent above a shop at Kota Sentosa.
“She also sought to discuss with the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) to rent a house for the families for less than RM150 per month,” he told reporters after monitoring the relocation of the families today (June 6).
Lo said he was happy because the two families were assisted with support from the general public.
“When they have settled in the new place which has electricity and clean water, I hope they would take care of the young children better.
“I am also grateful to the people who helped the families with essential items like mattresses, pillows and so on,” he said.
He also expressed her gratitude to the SUPP Batu 7 branch Women’s Wing led by Suzzilawati for having helped the families.
It was a sad situation when the families had to get water from a fire hydrant for bathing and cooking while staying at the cargo container.
It is understood that they relied on flashlights at night and shared the kitchen for cooking.
Previously, the families received help from Baitulmal and the Social Welfare Department (JKM).
