Deputy Minister: Putra Heights gas pipeline fire a stark reminder for Sarawak to strengthen industrial safety protocols

Len (left) and his wife, Datin Asiah Awai (right), pose for a photo with Wan Junaidi (second left), and his wife, Toh Puan Fauziah, during Len's Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house at his residence in Petra Jaya on April 2, 2025.
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By Ashley Sim

KUCHING, March 2: The recent gas pipeline explosion in Putra Heights, Subang Jaya, should serve as a wake-up call for industries operating in Samalaju, Bintulu, and other major industrial zones in Sarawak to strictly observe safety protocols, says Datuk Len Talif Salleh.

The Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration, and Environment (MUDeNR) Sarawak said the incident underscores the urgent need for all industrial players—especially those involved in high-risk sectors such as gas and petrochemicals—to prioritise safety as a non-negotiable standard in daily operations.

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“Safety is a critical issue in every industry, whether it’s gas, petroleum, or any other sector.

“Certain protocols must be adhered to. That’s why the government, together with responsible agencies, must ensure all companies—big or small—strictly follow these guidelines to safeguard both their operations and the people around them,” he said.

Len was speaking to reporters during his Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house at his residence today in Petra Jaya, which was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.

The minister also pointed to environmental compliance, particularly the proper handling and disposal of scheduled waste, as a crucial component of industrial safety.

“So, we urge the agencies entrusted with ensuring safety to follow the standards set. That is our hope,” he added.

Also present were Deputy Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Minister for Food Industry, Commodities, and Regional Development, Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom; Minister for Transport, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin; Sarawak State Secretary, Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; and Chief Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak, Dato Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman, along with other distinguished guests. — DayakDaily

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