IPK SELECT COMMITTEE PROPOSES 11 MEASURES TO BOOST INFRASTRUCTURE SAFETY

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 6  (Bernama) -- The Dewan Rakyat Select Committee on Infrastructure, Transport and Communications (IPK) has put forward 11 recommendations to strengthen the safety of Malaysia’s critical infrastructure, particularly gas pipeline networks, following the gas explosion incident in Putra Heights, Subang Jaya, on April 1.

Its chairman Yusuf Abd Wahab (GPS–Tanjong Manis) said the proposals are crucial to ensure that technical, environmental and local development factors are thoroughly addressed to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Among the key recommendations is enhancing gas pipeline monitoring through satellite technology, geophysical systems and real-time detection in high-risk areas.

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“The committee also recommends tightening development approval procedures near gas pipeline routes by requiring technical input from the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH), the Department of Minerals and Geoscience (JMG), Petronas Gas Berhad (PGB) and other relevant authorities.

“Other suggestions include establishing clear and consistent procedures for assistance and compensation to victims of critical infrastructure incidents, as well as improving early warning systems by installing sirens in densely populated areas near pipeline routes,” he said during a briefing on the IPK Select Committee’s Report (DR.28/2025) on the Putra Heights gas explosion.

Held for the first time during the Dewan Rakyat sitting, the briefing marks a step towards parliamentary reform aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability and the role of Ministry-related Select Committees (JKPK) in addressing current issues.

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Yusuf added that the committee also recommended expediting national geohazard mapping for all major gas pipeline routes, and conducting regular emergency drills involving local communities, rescue agencies and industry players.

“The committee further proposes establishing a critical infrastructure disaster fund to provide immediate assistance to victims, and reviewing existing laws to offer stronger legal protection for critical infrastructure.

“It also recommends introducing stricter maintenance standards for all gas pipelines and critical utilities, supported by annual independent safety audits,” he said, adding that the recent gas leak at the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project site in Kerteh, Kemaman, on Sept 20 serves as a clear reminder of the need for immediate action.

Meanwhile, seven government and opposition MPs took part in the debate during the briefing session.

Yeo Bee Yin (PH–Puchong) proposed that the government establish a committee to obtain regular updates from relevant agencies on recovery efforts, particularly the reconstruction and repair of homes damaged in the incident.

She also suggested forming another committee to get updates from PGB and government agencies on the overall safety of gas pipeline networks across Peninsular Malaysia.

Supporting the proposal, Datuk Dr Ahmad Yunus Hairi (PN–Kuala Langat) urged the government to provide an update on housing development for victims affected by the explosion.

“Although the state government has provided rental assistance, extending it beyond six months could burden state finances and make it harder for the victims to rebuild their lives,” he said.

Dr Halimah Ali (PN–Kapar) meanwhile urged the government to implement a comprehensive master plan with concrete preventive measures to ensure such incidents do not recur.

-- BERNAMA