By Nazira Hasanah Nasaruddin
KUALA LUMPUR, April 6 (Bernama) -- While children nationwide are enjoying Hari Raya Aidilfitri with their families, those at the Masjid Putra Heights temporary relief centre (PPS) affected by the recent gas pipeline fire have not been forgotten.
A Bernama observation found that MERCY Malaysia was among the organisations reaching out to lift the children’s spirits by organising games and activities to bring them some joy and laughter.
President Datuk Dr Ahmad Faizal Mohd Perdaus said the organisation felt compelled to help the victims, driven by a sense of social and humanitarian responsibility.
He added that situations like these require swift support from experienced responders, especially for communities grappling with trauma and loss.
“We are conducting a range of activities for the children, such as interactive games, arts and crafts, as well as counselling sessions.
These are designed not only to bring them some joy and distraction from the incident but also to help them express their emotions.
“We chose to incorporate play into our programme to create a more positive atmosphere for the children,” he told Bernama.
The gas pipeline fire, which broke out at 8.10 am last Tuesday, saw flames shooting over 30 metres, with temperatures reaching 1,000 degrees Celsius. It took nearly eight hours to fully extinguish the blaze.
As of noon today, 375 people from 96 families were taking shelter at the PPS.
Ahmad Faizal said the children showed keen interest and genuine enthusiasm, taking part in the games and sessions.
“Their laughter and eagerness to participate show they’re beginning to feel more at ease and happy, even in these challenging circumstances.
“Engaging in activities and play helps ease emotional stress, as it provides children with a safe space to express their feelings.
“They can also begin to process the trauma they’ve experienced through social interaction and play,” he explained.
He added that MERCY Malaysia remains committed to assisting whenever disasters or crises occur in the country, especially those with significant humanitarian impact.
“We have also extended direct aid to the victims in the form of personal hygiene kits to help maintain their health,” he said.
-- BERNAMA
