(Kuala Lumpur, 2nd) The Minister of Housing and Local Government, Nga Kor Ming, stated that the ministry will strive to study suitable and effective mechanisms to help address the housing issues of victims affected by the gas pipeline explosion incident in Putrajaya.
In a statement, he said the ministry welcomes the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar's suggestion that the federal government, Selangor state government, and Petronas collaborate to provide housing assistance to the displaced victims.
He said the investigation into the cause of the incident is still ongoing, but the housing department is ready to consult with all relevant parties to coordinate the necessary forms of assistance.
He mentioned that the homeless victims are currently placed at temporary evacuation centers at the Nuru Iman Mosque in Puchong and the Putrajaya Mosque multipurpose hall.
He added that since constructing new or repairing damaged houses takes time, the housing department is studying proactive measures to expedite this process.
"Our primary task is to ensure that the affected families receive the necessary support during the process of repairing or rebuilding their homes."
Nga Kor Ming noted that according to the report from the fire brigade, as of 6 PM yesterday, the incident has burned down 78 houses and 10 shops, impacted 237 houses, involving 305 victims, with 125 injured.
Nga Kor Ming also praised the front-line personnel, especially the fire brigade, for efficiently handling the fire incident, and thanked the management of the Nuru Iman Mosque, Putrajaya Mosque, and Sri Maha Kaliamman Hindu Temple for providing assistance to all victims regardless of race or religion.