BATU GAJAH: Mydin Manjoi must conduct a safety assessment to prevent building collapse.
Perak Fire and Rescue Department director Sayani Saidon said buildings that survive major fires usually had serious cracking, posing a risk of collapse.
"Building owners must take responsibility. Go to the relevant departments, like the Public Works Department, to get a check on the structural integrity of the premises.
"They may need to reinforce structures or consider complete reconstruction.
"The heat from the fire and the firefighting efforts can cause significant structural damage, making the building unsafe."
She said this after the opening of the Northern Region Malaysia Fire and Rescue Academy in Tronoh today. It was officiated by Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah.
Two boys, aged 13 and 14, were injured by falling debris from a collapsed wall at the hypermarket.
On March 10, the hypermarket caught fire about 7pm. No casualties were reported. (https://www.nst.com.my/amp/news/nation/2024/03/1023904/mydin-hypermarket...)
Sayani urged the public to avoid the collapsed wall area as nearby structures might be at risk of collapse.
"Although the area has been cordoned off, the structure remains unstable and could pose a danger to people.
"Once a building has been handed back to the owner after a fire investigation, it becomes their responsibility to ensure safety.
"It will no longer be under the jurisdiction of the Fire and Rescue Department to issue fines or penalties."