SUBANG JAYA, April 1 — A year has passed since the gas pipeline explosion in Putra Heights, yet the trauma remains vivid in the minds of the victims, even as they slowly rebuild their lives.
Retiree Marizah Omar, 59, said her family has been living in a new home provided by Syarikat Perumahan Negara Berhad (SPNB) in Kampung Kuala Sungai Baru since January, after their previous residence was destroyed in the incident on the second day of Syawal last year.
“Trauma is still there. If I were to describe what it was like, it was unimaginable. It’s an experience only those directly involved can understand,” she told Media Selangor. “We try to control our emotions. With faith, we gradually recover. My grandchild was very traumatised at first. Even coming home was difficult. Loud noises were unbearable. But over time, Alhamdulillah, we are healing.”
Moments of terror
Recalling the incident, Marizah said the explosion occurred around 8 am as the family was preparing to travel for Hari Raya.
“I was packing, and my husband had just returned with breakfast. Within seconds, a loud explosion occurred. We rushed out with nothing, not knowing what had happened,” she said.
In the chaos, the family was separated while fleeing. They reunited later at the hospital as all were injured, and her daughter underwent surgery, only meeting them weeks later.
A long recovery
Marizah suffered burns on multiple parts of her body and relied on a wheelchair for nearly a month after surgery.
“The skin recovery process may take at least two years, with permanent scars. The medication is expensive, over RM100 per small tube, and used frequently,” she said.
Despite the challenges, she expressed relief at finally having a permanent home after months of temporary accommodation.
“Having a house brings great relief. Previously, we rented because everything else was destroyed,” she added.
Grateful for a new home
The new home, built by the government, was completed in about a year.
“Alhamdulillah, we are grateful to finally have a home. It may not replace our previous house, but at least it’s on the same land we’ve lived on for 30 years,” she said.
She added that the experience has made her stronger and more appreciative of life, and she is determined to rebuild a future with her family.
“We accept what happened and strive to move forward. We hope life will be better, and we will be more patient and grateful,” she said.
Last December, 18 families affected by the Putra Heights gas pipeline fire had their homes fully restored or rebuilt, costing a total of RM4.85 million.
Syarikat Perumahan Negara Berhad (SPNB) chief executive officer Mohd Jamil Idris said on April 11, 2025, that 81 destroyed homes would be rebuilt, including 48 units in Taman Putra Harmoni and 33 units in Kampung Kuala Sungai Baru.
