“Selangor government denies claims of relocating gas pipeline fire victims to remote areas, confirming victims can choose from 100 new temporary rental units under the SMART Sewa scheme.“
Selangor, 16th Apr 2025, 02.13pm – The Selangor state government has dismissed allegations that victims of the Putra Heights gas pipeline fire were relocated to remote areas, stressing that all temporary rental homes offered are located in readily accessible areas across the state — with victims free to choose their preferred location.
Selangor Housing and Culture Executive Councillor Datuk Borhan Aman Shah clarified that the temporary housing options, provided under the Selangor SMART Sewa scheme, are vacant and new units, and not located in isolated areas as claimed.
“We give victims the freedom to choose accommodation based on their needs,” Borhan said at a press conference after handing over house keys to two affected families on Wednesday.
“For example, at Pangsapuri Seri Suria in Kota Warisan, we offered 100 brand-new units for immediate rental. These are not previously occupied homes.”
Allegations of Remote Housing Offerings ‘Baseless’
The clarification comes in response to claims circulating earlier this week that the Selangor government was relocating victims to areas far from their original homes — allegedly causing further hardship for those affected by the April 1 explosion.
Borhan strongly refuted the claims, emphasizing that the state government’s top priority is to ensure safe, comfortable, and convenient housing for all affected families.
Over 75 Applications Received for Temporary Homes
On Monday, Borhan announced that 100 temporary rental units had been made available at RM850 per month at Seri Suria Apartments for fire victims whose homes were severely damaged or destroyed.
As of Wednesday, the state government had received 75 applications, with ongoing verification to ensure the fair and transparent allocation of units.
“We prioritise those who are genuinely in need and do not currently own a home,” Borhan said.
“This is a special emergency case, so eligible victims will not be required to pay a deposit.”
He added that the government is working closely with district offices to screen applicants, ensuring no one exploits the system and that no eligible victim is left behind.
April 1 Explosion Displaced Dozens of Families
The Putra Heights gas pipeline fire — which broke out on April 1 — caused widespread destruction:
- 81 homes were completely destroyed with over 40% structural damage
- 81 others were partially damaged
- 57 homes were affected by the incident but not burned
- 218 houses remained unaffected, including those in Kampung Tengah Puchong
The incident prompted a swift response from both state and federal agencies, including emergency financial aid, temporary shelter arrangements, and ongoing restoration efforts.
