The Energy, Water and Communications Ministry has been urged to initiate an independent inquiry into how two fires believed to be caused by a short circuit, could occur within a week of each other.

In a letter to the minister Dr Lim Keng Yaik today, DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng asked why Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) did not take any preventive measures in the area after investigating the cause of the first fire.

"To ensure that TNB can answer these questions and assure the public that there is no cover-up, DAP demands a full independent inquiry on this shocking tragedy," he said.

Lim submitted the letter to ministry secretary-general Dr Halim Man in Putrajaya.

Vacate homes

Early yesterday morning, a fire engulfed two semi-wooden houses in Kampung Bandar Hilir, Melacca claiming the lives of four children, just six days after another fire razed their neighbour's house.

Those who perished in the 1.30am blaze were siblings Lim Ju Seng, 10, Jo Juan, seven, Lai Shen, six, and their aunt, Lio Chun Yee, 13.

Their father Lim Kok Seng, 40, who was some 100m away from the house, rushed back upon seeing the flames.

However, the mosaic contractor's frantic attempts to save his children were in vain.

Following the incident, Malacca Chief Minister Mohd Ali Rustam yesterday ordered the neighbours of the victims to vacate their houses pending an investigation by TNB.

The affected residents will also have to obtain a fresh certificate of fitness before being allowed to move into their old homes.