Putra Heights gas leak tragedy: Ministry to provide counselling to victims, says Nancy

KUCHING (April 2): The federal Women, Family and Community Development Ministry will establish a Local Social Support Centre (PSSS) at the Putra Heights Mosque multipurpose hall to provide psychological support for victims of Tuesday’s gas leak tragedy.

Its minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said a special truck would be stationed there to offer counselling services to individuals experiencing stress or trauma following the incident.

“Psychological support is crucial in helping victims cope with this situation. The PSSS will provide access to counsellors for those in need of a safe space to express their emotions and seek guidance,” she told reporters when met at Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house at the CIDB Convention Centre here today.

Nancy added her ministry, through the Social Welfare Department, had activated a temporary evacuation centre (PPS) in Puchong to house displaced victims.

“Currently, a total of 484 individuals from 109 households have been placed at the PPS. Additional evacuation centres will be opened if necessary to accommodate more victims,” she said.

She said the ministry is working closely with Petronas and the Selangor state government to ensure affected individuals receive adequate support and assistance.

Meanwhile, she acknowledged the public’s generosity, with many individuals and organisations sending donations in the form of essential goods.

However, she emphasised the importance of managing donations effectively to prevent logistical challenges for the victims, and urged donors to wait for further instructions before sending items as the victims might require financial assistance more urgently.

“At the mosque PPS, many people are contributing items, which we welcome. However, space is limited and we must ensure the donations do not become a burden to those who have lost their homes.

“We deeply appreciate the compassion shown by Malaysians. However, it is crucial to manage donations effectively to ensure they truly benefit the victims rather than overwhelm them with items that may be difficult to store.

“InsyaAllah, we will ensure that necessary aid—especially financial support—is provided. Many victims have lost their homes and financial assistance will help them recover,” she said.

Nancy assured the ministry’s assistance would complement the financial aid previously announced by the government.

Meanwhile, she also welcomed the participation of NGOs in relief efforts, but reiterated the need for proper coordination.

“The victims cannot stay at the mosque (PPS) indefinitely. The government is discussing a long-term solution to provide them with a more suitable place to live,” she said.

Nevertheless, the government remains committed to monitoring the situation and ensuring all necessary aid is delivered promptly to assist the victims in overcoming the challenges brought by this tragedy.