KUANTAN: The driving licences of fire victims at Kampung Baru Cina Karak in Bentong will be replaced by the government for free, says Dr Wee Ka Siong.

       The Transport Minister said the victims only needed to show their police reports to get their new licences during a visit to the site Tuesday (Oct 12) along with National Unity Minister Datuk Halimah Mohamed Sadique.

       “As long as you have the police report, you can replace your licence. I have mobilised the mobile unit and they were here last week.

       “Victims can get their replacements through the mobile unit or at the nearest Road Transport Department (JPJ) office,” the MCA president said.

       Also present during the visit was former MCA president Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai, who heads the Special Task Force for the Welfare of Karak Fire Victims.

       On additional aid for the victims, Halimah said that work was underway to rebuild the area.

       “Our engineers, architects, surveyors and lawyers are ready. When the proposals are completed, we will go through it and discuss the matter together with the state government.

       “It is certain that when we talk about new plans, we will require a close partnership between the federal and state governments. And, of course, any proposals for rebuilding will involve representatives from the village here as well,” Halimah said.

       A donation of RM189,000 in total from the National Unity Ministry was also handed over to 63 victims of the fire.

       On the night of Oct 1, 53 houses and eight shops went up in smoke in a fire at Kampung Baru Karak.

       No casualties were reported but dozens were left homeless.