KUALA LUMPUR, April 2 — The Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) is seeking an effective mechanism to address the housing woes of victims of yesterday’s gas pipeline fire in Putra Heights, Subang Jaya.
In a statement today, minister Nga Kor Ming said the KPKT welcomed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s suggestion for cooperation between the federal and Selangor governments, as well as Petronas, to provide aid to those left unhoused by the disaster.
Nga said investigations into the cause of the incident are ongoing, but KPKT is ready to engage with all parties to coordinate the necessary assistance.
He said victims who lost their homes are currently sheltering at Nurul Iman Mosque in Puchong and the temporary relief centre at Putra Heights Mosque.
“Rebuilding or repairing the destroyed houses will take time, and KPKT is exploring proactive measures to expedite the process.
“Our priority is to ensure affected families receive the necessary support for the repair or reconstruction of their homes,” he said.
Nga said according to a report from the Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) as at 6pm yesterday, 78 houses and 10 shoplots were destroyed in the fire.
A total of 305 people were affected by the fire, with 125 injured.
Yesterday, Anwar announced immediate financial aid of RM5,000 for victims whose homes were destroyed and RM2,500 for those whose homes were partially damaged.
Nga expressed appreciation for frontliners, especially firefighters, for their swift response in handling the blaze.
He also thanked the management of houses of worship, including Nurul Iman Mosque, Putra Heights Mosque and Sri Maha Kaliamman Temple, for providing aid to victims.
— Bernama
