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THE butane gas leak at the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) construction site in Kerteh has triggered widespread concern over the safety and transparency of major infrastructure projects, despite repeated assurances from officials that the situation remains “under control.”
The leak, first detected around 9.53 a.m. at Section 5 of the ECRL project, involved butane gas—an extremely flammable substance—which was reported to have travelled up to two kilometres from the primary pipeline.
The Malaysia Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) confirmed that butane was still detectable at one per cent concentration even 400 metres from the leak site.
“This is why we’re maintaining a 500-metre safety perimeter,” said JBPM Director-General Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad. “Petronas has the capability to prevent any explosion. A portable flare was installed this morning, and another is on the way from Kulim.”
But such reassurance is unlikely to satisfy public demand for transparency. The Department of Occupational Safety and Health (JKKP) has issued a formal stop-work notice at the site, halting all construction activity until the area is declared safe.
The site has been cordoned off as a restricted zone, with 24-hour security enforced by the Royal Malaysia Police.
JKKP Terengganu director Ir Noorazman Soud confirmed that Petronas Gas Berhad (PGB) and the contractors involved must submit a full investigation report. “If the investigation reveals negligence or violations, legal action will follow,” he said.
Offenders may face fines of up to RM500,000, imprisonment for two years, or both under the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994.
Preliminary findings suggest the leak was noticed when workers observed white vapour rising from the site. Emergency protocols were triggered immediately, with PGB shutting two main valves and evacuating all personnel.
Meanwhile, as a precaution, over 20 students from a nearby tahfiz centre are being relocated. Though the centre lies two kilometres from the site, authorities fear a shift in wind direction could pose an air quality hazard.
“We’re taking proactive steps,” said Kemaman Police Chief, Superintendent Mohd Razi Rosli. “If the wind changes, the air could be contaminated. We decided to move the students before nightfall to eliminate any risk.”
Mohd Razi also issued a stern warning to the public. “Do not approach the site. Open burning is strictly prohibited as airborne gas could ignite. Also, stop all activity in nearby forested areas until further notice.”
Authorities maintain that no residential areas were affected and that the situation is stable. However, road closures remain in place between Kerteh and Kampung Ranggon, and public access to the site is strictly prohibited.
As Malaysia braces for the Northeast Monsoon—with over 24,000 fire and rescue personnel preparing for floods—the Kerteh gas leak is a timely reminder that resilience isn’t just about responding to disasters, but about preventing them with accountability, foresight, and clear communication. - September 21, 2025
