SHAH ALAM, 7 April 2025 – The shocking fire incident caused by a gas pipeline explosion in Putra Heights, Subang Jaya, has resulted in an estimated loss of RM65.4 million, according to the Selangor state government.
Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari revealed the figure during a press conference held at the Selangor State Secretariat Building. The amount was calculated based on a detailed inspection led by the Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) involving 437 affected houses.
Of the total, 81 homes were completely destroyed, with structural damage exceeding 40 percent. Another 81 were partially destroyed, 57 houses were affected by the blast and heat but did not burn, and 218 were thankfully unaffected.
Despite the destruction, Amirudin praised the swift response of the fire brigade and the community, which helped save properties worth RM285.9 million. He also confirmed that the investigation radius has now expanded to 325 square metres, up from 290, for further safety assessments.
“151 houses have been confirmed safe and their residents are allowed to return,” he said. “However, some homes may still require minor repairs.”
To support the recovery, Datuk Johary Anuar, Deputy State Secretary (Development), has been appointed to lead the Recovery Phase, covering repairs to homes, roads, infrastructure, and other public amenities.
Meanwhile, the fire has deeply affected the local school-going children. Only 20 percent of students used the emergency transportation services provided. “Some are still traumatised,” Amirudin added. The State Education Department is now providing support to help affected students resume their studies at temporary evacuation centres (PPS).
To ease their burden, MBI Selangor will contribute RM500 each to 265 affected students.
The explosion, which happened around 8.10am last Tuesday, was linked to a Petronas gas pipeline, with flames soaring 30 metres high and reaching temperatures of 1,000°C. Firefighters battled the blaze for almost eight hours before it was fully extinguished. — Bernama
