THE Selangor state government will begin disbursing temporary rental assistance to 396 families affected by the recent gas pipeline fire in Putra Heights, Subang Jaya, starting Thursday.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said eligible heads of households will receive RM2,000 per month for three months, with payments to be deposited directly into their bank accounts.
"On Thursday, we will disburse the aid directly into their accounts," he said. "In addition to this financial assistance, they will also be briefed on the process of reconstructing homes damaged in the incident."
Amirudin was speaking after attending the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between KDEB Waste Management (KDEBWM) and Nestlé Malaysia during the SELKitar programme at Shah Alam Convention Centre on Tuesday.
Earlier reports noted that some residents had raised concerns over the lack of official communication or follow-up action nearly 20 days after the incident. While initial indications suggested that Syarikat Perumahan Negara Berhad (SPNB) would undertake repairs, no definitive decision or detailed reconstruction plan has yet been shared.
Previously, Amirudin announced that the Selangor government would cover rental costs of up to RM2,000 per month for six months for all 613 affected families, including tenants. The RM7.35 million aid package will also allow families to rent homes nearby, including units under the state’s Smart Sewa Scheme in Kota Warisan, Sepang.
Amirudin added that an official proposal outlining the reconstruction approach has been submitted to the Federal Government, given the scale of funding required.
“We have sent a proposal to the Federal Government regarding the repair method, which involves significant funding. We are now awaiting Cabinet approval and will inform the public once a decision is made,” he said.
He also noted that the reconstruction efforts must consider the differing needs of kampung and residential housing areas, which require tailored approaches. - April 22, 2025
