Zahid Vows Long-Term Support for Teen Siblings After Tragic Raub Fire

KUANTAN: Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has pledged comprehensive assistance to two teenage siblings who survived a devastating house fire in Kampung Pamah Kulat, Raub, that claimed the lives of five of their family members.

In a Facebook post on Friday, Zahid expressed deep sympathy for Ruby Adalia Balqis Mohd Alawi, 19, and her younger brother Ahmad Balia Murqam Mohd Alawi, 15, following the tragedy that struck their home in the early hours of Thursday (Feb 26).

The Deputy Prime Minister said he was profoundly moved by the siblings’ strength and resilience during a video call with the family. He reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding their welfare, including ensuring the continuity of their education and overall well-being.

Ruby Adalia Balqis, a matriculation student in Gambang, Kuantan, and Ahmad Balia Murqam, a student at SMK Dong in Raub, were not at home when the fire broke out at about 3am.

The blaze claimed the lives of their father, Mohd Alawi Muhammad, 56; mother, Zaleha Adam @ Ibrahim, 44; and three younger sisters, Ruby Adira Batrisya, 17, Ruby Adlina Banin, 14, and Ruby Azyan Barizah, 10.

All five victims were laid to rest together at the Bukit Gelugor Muslim cemetery at 11.45pm on Friday night in an emotional burial attended by relatives and community members.

Zahid also extended a personal invitation to the surviving siblings to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri with him, hoping to ensure they would not feel alone during the upcoming festive season.

“Let us pray that the souls of the departed are blessed and that the surviving family members are granted strength and perseverance in facing this immense trial,” he said.

Authorities are continuing investigations into the cause of the fire.