By Karen Bong
KUCHING, April 2: The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development is exploring various forms of assistance, including financial aid, to help victims of the gas pipeline fire in Putra Heights near Puchong, Selangor to recover from the destruction of their homes.
Minister Dato Sri Nancy Shukri assured that while financial assistance cannot undo the damage, efforts are underway to provide crucial support to affected families.
At the same time, she urged individuals and organisations planning to donate in kind to temporarily postpone their contributions due to limited storage space at the Temporary Evacuation Centres (PPS).
“We see many organisations and individuals extending assistance and delivering contributions, but there is not enough space to store these items,” she told reporters when met at Deputy Prime Minister Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof’s Hari Raya open house at CIDB Convention Centre in Samariang here today.
Nancy assured that the Social Welfare Department (JKM) remains committed to supporting the victims, who are currently housed at the PPS located at Putra Heights Mosque, with essential aid.
The department is coordinating with Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS) and the Selangor government to ensure efficient distribution of assistance.
“As of now, a total of 484 victims from 109 households have been affected. The PPS currently houses 34 elderly individuals, 290 adults, 135 children, 21 babies, and four persons with disabilities. While financial assistance cannot undo the damage, we are committed to helping them with what they need.
“The victims at the mosque cannot stay there for a long period. So, we will discuss further on what we can do,” she added.
Nancy also highlighted the importance of psychological support for those affected, noting that many victims are struggling with trauma in the aftermath of the incident.
She announced that a mobile One-Stop Social Support Centre will be set up at the PPS to provide counselling and emotional support.
“We sympathise with what they are going through. This is a crisis that teaches us valuable lessons. Some evacuees may be experiencing depression, and we want to ensure they receive the necessary psychological assistance,” she said.
Nancy assured that the government will continue assessing the needs of the victims and adjusting assistance accordingly, calling on the public to stay informed on the best ways to help.
JKM officers have been deployed on-site to assess further requirements and ensure aid reaches those in need effectively. — DayakDaily
