Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in Malaysia and southern Thailand will work together to provide aid and donations to victims affected by the explosion of a firecrackers and fireworks storage warehouse in Mundok, Sungai Kolok in Narathiwat.
Regional Civic Initiative (IMAR) chairman Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid said this was to ensure a more systematic distribution of aid and to avoid wastage.
“After inspecting the scene of the incident and listening to the needs of the victims, we will plan and distribute aid and donations systematically and directly to them,” he told Bernama.
IMAR is an initiative that brings together NGOs in Malaysia and five provinces in southern Thailand to carry out work related to welfare, economy, education and community service, as well as religion and culture.
Mohd Azmi, who is also president of the Malaysia Consultative Council of Islamic Organisations (MAPIM), said Malaysian and Thai NGOs would also work together to help displaced victims rebuild their homes.
Meanwhile, Yayasan Al Manjie’s Corporate Advisor Lila Ruzaini Hussain said based on the survey, the victims also need dry food, hygiene kits and medicines in addition to shelter.
On July 29, an explosion at a firecrackers and fireworks storage warehouse in Mundok claimed 11 lives, injuring more than 300 people and destroying and damaging 680 premises, including houses, shops and schools.
In addition, 41 vehicles and 27 motorcycles were also destroyed, while more than 3,000 residents were affected.
A Thai couple, who own the firecrackers and fireworks storage warehouse, have been arrested by police after surrendering last Saturday.
They face four charges, including negligence causing death, importing and selling dangerous fireworks and firecrackers without a permit, and renovating a building without permission from local authorities.
Source: BERNAMA News Agency