THE government has called on the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) to gather a comprehensive list of companies and factories affected by the recent gas pipeline fire in Putra Heights, Subang Jaya, which caused significant damage to the area.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim instructed KESUMA to work with the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI) to collect details of the affected businesses and their workers.
Speaking at a press conference following the Cabinet meeting, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil explained that the initiative aims to compile information regarding the workers affected by the incident and address the challenges faced by the businesses involved.
"MITI and KESUMA are in direct communication with the companies concerned, and we will carefully assess the situation before taking further actions," said Fahmi.
"The Cabinet has also been briefed on the disruption to gas supplies that several companies and factories are facing due to the closure of the gas pipeline. Later today, the Energy Commission will meet with the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) to discuss this issue."
Fahmi emphasised that the restoration of gas supplies remains a top priority for the government. "However, we understand that investigations are still ongoing, and this must be considered in the resolution process," he added.
In addition to the government's efforts, five major telecommunications providers in Malaysia – CelcomDigi, Maxis, TM Unifi, U Mobile, and YES – have pledged to offer recovery support to the victims of the fire.
The telecommunication companies will assist by providing financial relief and technical support to ease the burden on affected residents and businesses.
"These companies will offer various forms of assistance, including service fee exemptions for both prepaid and postpaid customers for a certain period, free equipment replacement, and free SIM card replacements for those affected," Fahmi said.
"Additionally, they will provide free 5G Wi-Fi services at the temporary relief centres (PPS) to help those impacted."
The telecommunications companies will tailor their support depending on the needs of the affected individuals and will provide assistance in line with the terms and conditions set by each provider.
"For further information on the available aid, affected residents can visit the mobile service counters at the PPS, call the helplines of the respective telecommunication companies, or visit the nearest company branch," Fahmi noted.
The gas pipeline fire, which occurred at 8:10 AM on Tuesday, engulfed the area in flames reaching heights of over 30 meters, with temperatures soaring to 1,000 degrees Celsius.
Firefighters worked for almost eight hours to bring the blaze under control. The incident resulted in the complete destruction of 81 homes, with more than 40% structural damage, while another 81 homes were partially damaged. Fortunately, 57 homes were affected but not burned, and 218 homes remained unaffected.
Xi Jinping to visit Malaysia
The Cabinet was also informed of an upcoming official visit to Malaysia by Chinese President Xi Jinping, scheduled for April 15 to 17, 2025.
"This visit underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthen bilateral relations," said Fahmi. "It also highlights Malaysia’s role as a trading nation, and we look forward to building stronger economic ties with China." – April 9, 2025
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