PETALING JAYA: The government and PETRONAS will take responsibility for repairing and compensating residents who were affected by the gas inferno incident at Putra Heights, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said homeowners whose properties are completely damaged will be entitled to a RM5,000 assistance and those who were injured will get RM2,500.
“If there is a need, the government will consider increasing it,” said Anwar.
He said PETRONAS and the government are currently discussing short-term measures that can bring tangible effects for the fire victims.
“It could take up to a year. It isn’t like floods which usually lasts a week or two. This might be more than a year.
“But the responsibility to completely repair and compensate this housing area will be borne by us fully, the Federal Government and Petronas, along with state governments. That is why, I said, don’t worry. It will take just a bit of time,” he said after visiting the fire location yesterday.
Anwar said he has ordered the entire government machinery to come up with suggestions and to engage with local residents to ensure full recovery for victims.
“This is different from the floods, as there is big damage ... So, this requires a more thorough planning.
“As I have stressed, it cannot be solved in a few months. But believe me, I will mobilise the entire government machinery to take immediate action,” he said.
Anwar also said Putrajaya will be providing any assistance that the police, the Fire and Rescue Department, as well as town council, need for this incident.
“Thank you also to the mosque and temple committee that provided temporary shelters for victims.
“This is how we do things; where there is a problem, we will work together and solve it,” he said.
