CJMY
A fire on 28 July devastated 32 out of 40 stalls at the Huma House Hawker Complex along the Batu Ferringhi coastline.
The Huma House Hawker Complex, established over 40 years ago, is a significant part of Batu Ferringhi’s local economy and tourist appeal.
Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran announced that major reconstruction would begin following the release of the Fire and Rescue Department’s forensic report.
In the meantime, MBPP will start designing the new-look stalls for the complex.
The fire’s cause is currently under investigation, with initial reports suggesting it might have been due to a liquid fuel spill from a container held by a water sports staff member.
“We cannot confirm anything because investigations are still ongoing,” Rajendran said. “This is just the operators’ account of the incident. We must await the official report before making any decisions.”
Supporting the affected operators
Rajendran, along with state Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye, and state Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari, inspected the site.
H’ng emphasised that if negligence is confirmed, stern action will be taken against the responsible parties. He urged the affected stall operators to file police reports detailing their losses.
“While we do not know the exact amount of losses suffered by the operators, they are all urged to fill a police report, detailing their losses,” H’ng said.
He also called on water sports operators to ensure safe practices along the coastline, a major tourist attraction.
Zairil, who is also the Tanjong Bungah assemblyman, assured that his office would assist the affected operators during this difficult period.
He mentioned that MBPP would look into securing a temporary space for the operators to continue their businesses while reconstruction is underway.
Plans for reconstruction at Batu Feringgi
The fire at Batu Ferringhi has disrupted business for many local vendors, but the planned reconstruction aims to restore and improve the area.
The new design for the hawker complex promises modernised facilities that will enhance the tourist experience and boost local commerce.
Rajendran noted that part of the complex’s structures were built by the Penang government, while others were built by the operators themselves.
This collaboration highlights the importance of the hawker complex to both the local community and the government.
Ensuring the safety of Batu Ferringhi’s bustling coastline is a priority. H’ng stressed the importance of safe operations for water sports and other activities in the area.
The fire incident has underscored the need for stringent safety measures to protect both operators and tourists.
MBPP and other authorities will work closely to implement these measures and ensure that the rebuilt stalls meet high safety standards.
This effort will help maintain Batu Ferringhi’s reputation as a top tourist destination in Penang.
Source: Buletin Mutiara
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