PUTRA HEIGHTS – The Malaysian Red Crescent Society (BSMM) Selangor branch was among the first humanitarian responders to arrive at the scene following the devastating gas pipeline explosion in Putra Heights, Subang Jaya, an incident that injured over 100 individuals and displaced scores of families.
According to BSMM Selangor Chairman, Nanthakumar Rajasingam, a rapid deployment of 30 trained volunteers was mobilised within the first hour of the disaster to assist with emergency medical aid and humanitarian coordination.
“Our team has been working non-stop since the very first hour of the explosion. We provided immediate first aid to burn victims and assisted in transferring them to nearby hospitals,” Nanthakumar said.
Volunteers were stationed at two Temporary Evacuation Centres (PPS): Masjid Putra Heights Multipurpose Hall and Dewan Camellia Putra Heights, with 15 BSMM personnel assigned to each location.
Victims were rushed to multiple hospitals across the Klang Valley, including Serdang Hospital, Shah Alam Hospital, Cyberjaya Hospital, and Putrajaya Hospital, depending on the severity of injuries.
Beyond physical injuries, BSMM also activated its Psycho-Social Support Services (PSS) to aid traumatised victims many of whom lost homes and belongings within minutes.
“Some victims escaped with nothing but the clothes on their backs. It’s not just about food and medicine, it’s also about restoring dignity and emotional strength during moments of extreme vulnerability,” he added.
BSMM distributed essential relief items including food packs and hygiene kits containing dry food, soap, sanitary pads, baby diapers, and face masks, basic necessities critical to those sheltering in communal evacuation centres.
The humanitarian effort was carried out in close coordination with various government agencies and NGOs, including the Department of Social Welfare, District Health Office, Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM), Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Civil Defence Force (JPAM), and several local non-profits.
“This is not just another disaster — it is a deeply traumatic event for the victims, many of whom are still shaken and unsure of what lies ahead. As Malaysians, we must stand together in support of them,” said Nanthakumar.
He further urged more volunteers to step forward and join the ongoing relief efforts, noting that humanitarian aid must be continuous, not only in the immediate aftermath but throughout the recovery period.
“BSMM Selangor is committed to staying on the ground until every affected individual is safe, stable, and equipped with the necessities to rebuild their lives.
“But we can’t do this alone. More helping hands are needed urgently,” he stressed.
The gas explosion has not only left physical destruction in its wake but has also revealed the vulnerability of urban communities to infrastructural risks.
While investigations are ongoing, the victims many from low-income households are depending on sustained aid and compassion from fellow Malaysians to get back on their feet. -MalayaDailyToday
