SIBU: The Sarawak Dayak National Union (SDNU) Sibu has stepped forward to show solidarity and compassion for the residents of Rumah Jonathan Budun, Tanjung Penasu, who lost their longhouse to a devastating fire on Monday evening (June 16).
In a tragic turn of events, the nine-door longhouse was completely engulfed in flames, leaving its occupants with nothing but only the clothes they were wearing at the time.
“We lost everything except the tanchut on our punggung (shorts on our backs),” said Tuai Rumah Jonathan Budun, who was visibly emotional while recounting the ordeal, the suffering, and the uncertainty of their future.
“SDNU Sibu stands in solidarity, sympathy, and empathy with the residents of Rumah Jonathan Budun during this darkest moment in their lives,” it said in a statement today (June20).
On Thursday evening (June 19), the executive committee of SDNU Sibu, led by its chairman, visited SK Tanjung Penasu, the temporary shelter for the fire victims, to deliver basic necessities and offer moral support.
“We assured them that they are in our thoughts and prayers,” it added.
SDNU Sibu also called on all sectors of society, community members, NGOs, charitable organisations, and government agencies to come together and support the victims as they begin the long process of rebuilding their lives.
“Now more than ever, they need empathy, encouragement, and tangible support,” it said.
In the meantime, the fire victims continue to stay at the temporary shelter while awaiting assistance to restore their homes and livelihoods.
