By Yasmin Ramlan
SHAH ALAM, April 15 — The upcoming Selangor State Legislative Assembly sitting may include a debate on matters related to the Putra Heights gas pipeline explosion, which could lead to the introduction of new policies, said its Speaker Lau Weng San.
He said that it is important for the issue to be debated and discussed in the state assembly, and this includes the safe buffer zone in high-risk areas between industrial infrastructure and residential premises.
“The matter is still under investigation, and I am certain the executive will carry out their duties to resolve the problem.
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Selangor State Legislative Assembly Speaker Lau Weng San speaks during a press conference at the State Secretariat Building in Shah Alam on April 15, 2025. — Picture by AHMAD ZAKKI JILAN/MEDIA SELANGOR[/caption]
“The legislative will definitely discuss and debate this issue, and I hope there will be a more vigorous debate, especially on proposals to establish safer routes and buffer zones.
“All developments within each local council are subject to the local plan. Therefore, the debate should focus on the buffer zone distance outlined in the plan. In this case (Putra Heights), under MBSJ (the Subang Jaya City Council),” Lau said during a press conference on the outcome of a survey on infrastructure relating to investments in Selangor at the State Secretariat Building today.
He added that enquiries related to the issue may be raised during the upcoming sitting, which is expected in July, and that agencies like the Town and Country Planning Department (PLANMalaysia) should be prepared with the necessary responses.
On April 1, a Petronas Gas Bhd gas pipeline leak triggered a powerful explosion in Putra Heights, Subang Jaya, followed by a massive fire.
The gas pipeline explosion and fire, which broke out at 8.10am, saw flames rise over 30 metres high and temperatures reach up to 1,000°C. It took close to eight hours to bring to fully extinguish the blaze.
The incident destroyed 81 houses, with structural damage exceeding 40 per cent. Another 81 houses were partially damaged, while fifty-seven homes were affected but did not catch fire.
A total of 218 houses, including those in Kampung Tengah, Puchong, remained unscathed.
The incident affected 1,254 victims, including 308 families.
