Petronas Gas (PGB) has announced that it is fully cooperating with authorities to investigate the cause of the explosion and fire that occurred last Tuesday on one of its major gas pipelines near Kuala Lumpur. The incident resulted in over 140 injuries and the destruction of nearly 90 homes.
Around 10 agencies are involved in the investigation, which took place during the Eid al-Fitr public holiday, marking the end of Ramadan. PGB emphasized its commitment to supporting government-led community rebuilding efforts and fully cooperating with relevant authorities to determine the cause of the explosion.
“Our main priorities are public safety, the safety of our operations, and ensuring the country’s gas supply security,” said PGB in a statement late Tuesday.
Due to the incident, gas supplies have been limited in certain parts of the country. Priority is being given to essential services such as hospitals and the stabilization of gas pipeline pressure, according to Malaysia’s Energy Commission (ST).
In a statement on Monday, the Energy Commission confirmed that the fire disrupted gas supply to four major power stations in the Klang Valley. However, the electricity supply in Peninsular Malaysia remains stable, as several mitigation measures have been implemented or are in the works.
“Mitigation measures include optimizing operations at existing power stations, such as coal-based generation, and closely monitoring demand and power dispatch plans to address various risk scenarios,” the Commission stated.
Following the incident on April 1, PGB activated its crisis and emergency response teams, quickly mobilizing resources. Volunteers, including PGB employees, were among the first to assist the Jabatan Kebajikan Masyarakat (JKM), Malaysia’s Department of Social Welfare, at temporary relief centers set up for displaced residents.
“Since the beginning of the crisis, more than 100 staff members have volunteered to help with food distribution at the relief centers. PGB is also providing around 1,000 food packs daily to those affected and the front-line workers,” the company said.
PGB also highlighted its focus on the safety and well-being of affected communities. It has been working closely with hospitals and Malaysia’s Ministry of Health (Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia) to meet the medical needs of victims receiving emergency treatment.
Additionally, PGB is partnering with federal and state governments to provide aid to those affected by the incident. Households that have suffered total or partial property loss will receive financial assistance ranging from 2,500 to 5,000 ringgit ($557 to $1,114), depending on the extent of the damage.
Other Petronas Group entities, including Petronas Dagangan and Yayasan Petronas, have also contributed care packs with essential supplies for the displaced individuals and families.
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