THE mother-in-law of opposition leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin has died in a house fire which broke out at the family’s residence in Kampung Sungai Rapat Tambahan, Ipoh, on Thursday night.
Perak Fire and Rescue Department director Sayani Saidon confirmed that 84-year-old Salmiah Nyakk Matt was killed in the incident. Her husband, Datuk Abdul Ghani Ngah, 83, suffered breathing difficulties and was taken to Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital for treatment.
According to New Straits Times, District police chief Assistant Commissioner Abang Zainal Abidin Abang Ahmad said the blaze was reported at 9.19pm, with emergency services alerted via a MERS 999 call.
“Initial investigations revealed that six people, all from the same family, were in the house at the time of the incident,” he said.
“The fire tragically claimed the life of an 84-year-old woman, who was pronounced dead at the scene,” he added.
The remaining four family members, aged between 18 and 49, escaped without injury.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the fire.
Abang Zainal Abidin has urged members of the public with any relevant information to contact the Ipoh District Control Centre (DCC) at 05-254 2222. - June 20, 2025
