Five families homeless in the aftermath of Kampung Hock Ann fire

KUALA LUMPUR: The Winter Solstice celebration for the residents of Kampung Hock Ann in Old Klang Road, next to Scott Garden,here, went up in smoke when a fire destroyed their houses and belongings on Tuesday.
The blaze which struck 23 houses at 7.30pm left about five families homeless, with just their clothes on their back.
No casualties were reported in the incident.
The fire, according to the City Fire and Rescue Department, was caused by a short circuit.
However, one of the victims, who wanted to be known as Mas, 36, said she and some residents noticed some suspicious activities near the house before the fire broke out.
"I strongly believe short circuit is not the reason for the incident. We (residents) suspect the fire could be because of suspicious activities in the house," she told theSun when met as the affected families were placed at the Community Hall in Seri Petaling here.
She further revealed the house had been vacant for months as the owner was arrested for a drug-related offence months back.
"What is important is that we managed to save ourselves and our families. However we have been rendered homeless by the fire," she said.
She added that only a few locals stay at the squatter area as the rest are mostly foreigners.
Another victim, who identified herself as Ah Poh, 58, said Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) had promised to provide the victims with units at People's Housing Projects (PPR).
"DBKL personnel met us earlier today and we were offered PPR houses and we hope the process of getting it will go well," she added.