KUALA LUMPUR, April 3 (Bernama) -- The devastating gas pipeline fire in Putra Heights, Subang Jaya, Selangor, on the morning of the second day of Aidilfitri, united Malaysians in an outpouring of support for the hundreds of victims affected by the tragedy.
The incident, which shocked the nation, became a testament to the solidarity and compassion of Malaysia’s multiracial society with people from all walks of life -- government bodies, relevant agencies, corporate companies, and non-governmental organisations -- quickly coming forward to offer assistance.
From the very first day, enforcement and emergency personnel worked tirelessly to manage the situation. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim also took it upon himself to visit the affected site personally.
After a briefing from the enforcement team, he promptly announced initial aid of RM5,000 for homeowners whose houses were completely destroyed and RM2,500 to more than 100 owners of partially damaged homes.
The prime minister also said that the responsibility to restore the housing area would be shouldered by the government, PETRONAS, and the state government and that discussions were in progress to determine the best course of action regarding the relocation of victims before they can return to their respective homes.
The massive fire, which broke out at 8.10 am on Tuesday, sent towering flames into the sky, generating intense heat and thick dust that ravaged rows of homes and destroyed over 300 vehicles.
In response, the Selangor government acted swiftly on the first day of the incident by setting up a relief centre (PPS) at the Putra Heights Mosque to shelter affected residents. Additionally, several places of worship opened their doors, offering premises for temporary treatment and accommodation.
The government’s relief efforts extended beyond providing shelter. The Ministry of Transport, through the Road Transport Department, deployed a mobile service counter at the PPS at the Putra Heights Mosque, allowing victims to replace lost or damaged transport-related documents without needing a police report.
Similarly, the Home Ministry, through the National Registration Department, offered free replacement services for lost identity cards, birth certificates, and other essential documents.
The Immigration Department also stepped in, announcing that victims whose passports were lost or damaged in the fire could apply for a free replacement at any of its nearby offices.
In terms of financial aid, the Ministry of Education (MOE) has pledged RM1,000 in assistance for affected individuals, including teachers and students.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Higher Education announced six incentives, including an RM2,000 contribution from Yayasan Perkasa Siswa (YPS) for four affected students of institutions of higher learning. Additional support will be assessed, and affected students will be granted flexibility for late semester registration.
For those in the workforce, the Ministry of Human Resources encourages them to apply for Flexible Working Arrangements (AKF) and calls on private-sector employers to consider granting paid leave for an appropriate period.
The private sector also stepped in, particularly the automotive industry. Several companies have offered assistance, including facilitating insurance claims and donating temporary-use vehicles. Among them, Carro has provided 30 vehicles, while Chery Malaysia has contributed 50 cars for the use of the victims.
The Ministry of Transport is currently in discussions with relevant parties to secure sponsorships for free motorcycles for over 70 affected victims.
Several financial institutions, including CIMB, Bank Islam, Etiqa, and Bank Muamalat Malaysia Berhad (Bank Muamalat), have announced relief measures such as waiving late payment fees and deferring monthly instalments for those impacted.
Additionally, the Association of Islamic Banking and Financial Institutions Malaysia (AIBIM) has confirmed that Islamic banks are committed to providing financial assistance to affected individuals.
Meanwhile, General Insurance Association of Malaysia (PIAM) chairman Ng Kok Kheng assured that the insurance industry is expediting claims for eligible policyholders, covering motor insurance, personal accident, retail fire, and homeowner policies.
The tragedy has also affected pets, drawing the attention of NGOs like the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), which has stepped in to rescue animals and offer free treatment.
Other organisations, including the Stray Animal Society of Malaysia (SAFM) and the Animal Kindness Coalition (AKC), have also mobilised volunteers to assist on the ground.
-- BERNAMA
