KUALA LUMPUR: The Digital Ministry will distribute digital devices to victims of the Putra Heights gas pipeline fire.
Minister Gobind Singh Deo said many victims had reported losing devices such as laptops, mobile phones and Internet equipment in the blaze.
In a statement, he announced that the ministry would provide 100 laptops, 100 tablets and 100 smartphones to those in need of the devices.
Gobind said applications for the devices can be submitted through the service centre of Kota Kemuning assemblyman S. Preakas.
“MyDigital Corporation, an agency under the Digital Ministry, will also work closely with the Selangor Information Technology & Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec) and the Mentri Besar’s Office to provide an online platform to ensure victims receive clear information and timely updates.
“I also take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has worked tirelessly to help those affected,” he said, reported Bernama.
The fire, which broke out at 8.10am on Tuesday in Jalan Putra Harmoni, affected 1,254 individuals from 308 families.
Eighty-seven homes were completely destroyed and rendered uninhabitable, while 148 houses sustained damage but remain livable with repairs.
As at 8am yesterday, 379 people from 97 families were still sheltering at the Putra Heights Mosque temporary evacuation centre.
The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation will also provide 500 power banks, primarily for evacuees at the centre.
Meanwhile, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir said the ministry is providing medicine, counselling and also humanitarian aid to victims at the relief centre.
“We have also sent a psychological support team to help those experiencing trauma. They handle not only adults but also children. We also have the Siswa Madani team, comprising volunteers from various universities in the country,” he said yesterday.
Zambry added that the ministry is identifying students affected by the incident to ensure they receive the necessary assistance to continue their studies.
Youth and Sports Ministry staff affected by the fire will also be provided with appropriate assistance, with Deputy Minister Adam Adli Abdul Halim confirming that two staff members had been identified.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad (pic) also assured that the medical and healthcare needs of victims would be fully met, including those with pre-existing conditions.
“I found that healthcare services have not been disrupted. We are also using MySejahtera, which provides us with immediate information about the medications required by the victims.
“Additionally, the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Service is providing emotional support and helping to ensure victims’ mental well-being,” he told reporters after visiting the evacuation centre.
