What a cowardly act! Let’s hope that the authorities apprehend those behind the attack soon.
A shocking incident happened in Miri, Sarawak yesterday as the Employee Provident Fund (EPF) office there was attacked by unknown perpetrators with Molotov cocktails. The incident, which happened at around 3pm was during busy hours at the office. Thankfully, no deaths or injuries were reported as a result of the attack.
As reported by Harian Metro, several RELA members were present outside the building when the attack happened. The RELA members were there to oversee Malaysians that came to the EPF office for their respective dealings with the organisation.
One of the witnesses who saw the attack claimed that he saw a man with a tattoo riding a motorcycle a few metres from the EPF building before throwing the Molotov cocktail.
Subsequent to the attack, the Miri District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Hakemal Hawari said that the police is currently conducting investigations on the incident. He further iterated,
“At this moment in time, we can’t confirm whether the incident is related to disappointment for failing to apply for i-Sinar as claimed by certain quarters in social media,”
In case you didn’t know, i-Sinar is a program under EPF whereby members of the fund can withdraw from their first account if they are eligible under certain circumstances. Many have claimed that the eligibility of withdrawal is too strict and asked for leniency given the economic situation we are currently in.
Meanwhile, EPF has come out with a statement addressing the attack yesterday, reassuring the public that there were no deaths or injuries arising form the incident. EPF also said that they view this attack seriously and is working closely with the authorities to investigate the matter. The statement stressed,
“(The attack) is not only criminal, but also endangers visitors and our staff. The EPF wishes to point out violence is never a solution and that Malaysia has avoided much of the civil strife of recent years that have emerged in various parts of the world.
“This act is not in keeping with the culture and values of Malaysia.”
EPF also reassured the public that safety and security of their branches is a priority and of utmost importance. They also hoped that this criminal act would be dealt with according to the full force of the law.
Also read: EPF CEO Slammed For Not Giving A Straight Answer During Interview
