The state government will study in depth the best way to solve the problem of squatter settlements in Sabah, said Chief Minister Shafie Apdal.

He said the government would take short and long term approaches to resolve the squatter woes in the state which was time consuming and could not be resolved within a year or two.

“We do not want more locals living in squatter areas... this is not only confined to Kota Kinabalu, there are also many squatter settlements in other areas such as Sandakan and Tawau,” he said.

Shafie told reporters this after visiting fire victims of Kampung Cenderamata Dua, Likas at the Likas Multipurpose Hall in Kota Kinabalu today.

In the incident at about 2.30pm yesterday, at least 150 houses were destroyed in the fire that affected 700 victims, including 600 local residents.

He said the government would help the victims, especially in the short run, and they would be moved to a more comfortable and suitable place.

“What is important is that we must ensure their safety from the health aspect. We want the children and elderly who need medical attention to be focused and I have instructed the Health Ministry at the state level to handle the matter,” he added.

- Bernama