By Dewi Abdul Rahman
SUBANG JAYA, April 11 — The Selangor Labour Department (JTK) has assisted 74 employees affected by the recent gas pipeline explosion in Putra Heights regarding their leave entitlements.
Its senior labour officer Mohd Hafizdzul Kafli said the department is engaging with their employers to help resolve leave-related issues, including facilitating special leave approvals.
“We are assisting those working in the private sector who are facing difficulties with their employers, especially those who had their annual leave requests rejected.
“So far, some of the 74 affected workers have been granted the leave they requested. However, the duration of compassionate leave given ultimately depends on the discretion of their employers,” he said.
Hafizdzul stated that most employers have been understanding of their workers’ circumstances, given the emergency situation.
“We are contacting employers to inform them that their employees are still in the process of relocating, whereas some are still seeking assistance, and many are not in a position to return to work yet.
“There are also cases where employers were confused or unsure of what action to take. We help clarify the situation and hope that the affected employees will be granted exemptions and receive their full salaries,” he said.
The explosion involving a Petronas gas pipeline along Jalan Putra Harmoni in Putra Heights, occurred at 8.10am on April 1, affecting 1,254 residents from 308 families.
A total of 87 houses were completely destroyed and deemed uninhabitable, while another 148 homes sustained partial damage but are liveable after undergoing repairs.
