“Three of us suffered major burns and spent more than a month in hospital.”
SUBANG JAYA: The flames may have died down a year ago, but the trauma in Putra Heights remains acute.
On April 1 last year—the second day of Aidilfitri—a devastating gas pipeline explosion tore through the neighbourhood, leaving behind physical scars and a haunting uncertainty for its residents.
For survivor Ooi Sui Li, the memories of that day are searing. “One year ago, my family had to escape a fire that consumed our neighbourhood.
“Three of us suffered major burns and spent more than a month in hospital.
“We underwent multiple skin grafts, and the treatments are ongoing,” she said.
Ooi spoke at a press conference organised today by Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) The Artivist Network, Greenpeace Malaysia and RimbaWatch to mark the one-year anniversary of the tragedy and the release of their policy report, “Putra Heights One Year On: Unanswered Questions Remain”.
Despite their medical needs, Ooi claimed that no agency has reached out to check on her family’s wellbeing.
“This has been entirely on us,” she added. Her frustration reflects a wider sentiment within the community regarding the conditions attached to government assistance.
“The media reports that the government is helping to rebuild our houses, but to receive that help, we must sign away our rights to pursue justice or compensation. This is not right. We deserve fair compensation for the trauma we have endured,” Ooi added.
Eunice Tan, another resident living near “ground zero”, questioned the safety of rebuilding so close to a high-pressure pipeline.
“The explosion reached temperatures of around 1,000°C. For context, an oven for roasting chicken reaches just 200–250°C. Imagine human life exposed to that. Why are we being asked to return? Why is there no other solution?” she asked.
Kota Kemuning assemblyman S. Preakas attended the session to hear residents’ concerns firsthand.
He acknowledged their fears and emphasised that safety audits and policy reforms are underway.
“The government can repair or rebuild damaged homes, but those who choose this route may not be able to pursue separate legal claims for additional compensation.
“We must be fair to everyone. Residents who wish to take legal action may do so, but they would not receive government-funded repairs,” Preakas clarified.
He added that the tragedy has prompted a comprehensive policy review to ensure stronger safety measures for future developments affecting not only Putra Heights, but also Kota Kemuning, Sri Muda and Bukit Kemuning.
“The area must be safe. My office is open, and I am here today to bring these matters to the state assembly,” Preakas added.
