Johor bahru: The Johor government is undertaking the construction of 40 houses on an Orang Asli reserve land near Kuala Masai to accommodate victims impacted by the fire at Kampung Orang Asli Teluk Jawa last Wednesday.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Faisal Long, the director of the Johor Orang Asli Development Department (JAKOA), stated that the five-acre coastal site has been identified as a suitable location for the relocation of the Orang Asli community from the Seletar tribe. The relocation plan includes 30 families who were directly affected by the fire and 10 families who were not impacted.

Faisal Long shared these updates with reporters during a visit to the Dewan Muafakat Taman Megah Ria Temporary Relief Evacuation Centre (PPS). He mentioned that the construction of temporary housing is contingent upon approval at the upcoming District Disaster Committee meeting with relevant agencies.

'If approved, we are targeting the temporary houses to be completed within one or two weeks, after which the residents can move to the new settlement,' Faisal noted. He emphasized that the relocation is anticipated to strengthen community ties and improve administrative coordination, thereby enhancing access to essential facilities, including healthcare and welfare services.

The fire that struck Kampung Orang Asli Teluk Jawa last Wednesday resulted in the destruction of 30 houses, leaving 117 residents without homes. Faisal expressed hope that the government's efforts would provide the Orang Asli community with renewed spirit to rebuild their lives.