At the ready: Victims being attended to at Putra Heights Mosque. — GLENN GUAN/The Star
SUBANG JAYA: When people are in need, you can always count on Malaysians.
Following the massive blaze in Putra Heights here, ordinary people from various communities have readily banded together to render aid and support to the over 500 victims who have been displaced by the tragic incident.
These unsung heroes opened their mosques and temples, allowing victims to seek refuge, irrespective of their colour or creed.
“We took everyone in. The situation was very concerning. We are more used to handling flood victims but this time, it was a fire,” said Ahmad Ismail Misar, 32, the assistant manager of Putra Heights Mosque.
“The only thing on our mind was to help those in need, we did not consider their race or religion.”
Its multipurpose hall is among the temporary relief centres currently sheltering victims whose homes were damaged in the inferno caused by a burst gas pipeline.
Ahmad Ismail also expressed gratitude at the contributions of the communities at large.
“We did not expect so much help coming in for the victims and it can be challenging to manage the overall situation but we are extremely touched by the overwhelming response from the public,” he said.
Sri Maha Kaliamman Temple adviser Manikavasagam Raman said the temple committee opened its gates immediately upon hearing the blast and screams of panic.
The temple, located just opposite the neighbourhood close to ground zero, was converted into a makeshift medical base.
“We welcome everyone – Chinese, Indians, Malays and even foreigners,” he said, adding that victims will be given food aid.
At the temple grounds yesterday, members of its management were seen preparing food for all, including members of the media.
“There is always enough food and beverages here for anyone. There have also been those displaced, putting up here overnight,” said Manikavasagam.
The temple, he added, is looking to organise a programme offering legal advice and counselling to the victims.
Meanwhile, Tzu Chi Foundation volunteer Gan Heng Thor, 52, said the Buddhist humanitarian organisation has been on the ground since news of the incident broke.
“We don’t look at religion, race or identity. It’s charity, and we must act,” said the architect.
Earlier yesterday, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang commended the actions of the mosque and temple in offering aid to the victims, calling it a reflection of the spirit of unity and solidarity among the people.
He added that the situation also serves as a reminder to all Malaysians that unity is not just a slogan but must be translated into actions that reflect responsibility and care for one another.
Meanwhile, Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri called on the public and organisations to temporarily postpone their planned donations to the victims due to space constraints.
She advised donors to contact the Welfare Department to discuss what forms of assistance can be channelled.
Various companies, NGOs and individuals have been donating essentials and food to the victims since Tuesday.
