SHAH ALAM: A total of RM2.73mil in rental assistance has been allocated for 455 families affected by the Putra Heights, Subang Jaya gas pipeline and fire incident, says Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.
Amirudin said the number was an increase from the previously reported 396 families, following several recent requests, applications and ongoing investigations by the authorities.
“Each family will receive RM6,000 to cover three months’ rent at first. Any additional assistance for the following three months will be provided in July or August for those who need to extend their rental.
“The rent will be transferred directly into the bank accounts of the affected families,” he said in a joint press conference with Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming at the Selangor state secretariat building here, on Wednesday (April 30).
So far, Amirudin stated that 214 families have received aid, while the remaining recipients are waiting for the verification of their bank accounts, identity cards, and other related documents.
He said the state government has initially committed to a six-month rental assistance period for the Putra Heights victims whose homes were wrecked by the fire.
“But as the restoration works will kick start soon, we believe that 60 to 70% of residents will be able to return to their homes by then.
"However, the state government remains committed to covering an additional six months or even up to a year of rent for those who require it, particularly for victims whose homes need to be rebuilt," he said.
Amirudin added that houses with minor damage estimated at below RM30,000 can be repaired by the owners first, with reimbursement claims submitted to either the local authorities or village heads.
"The residents may file claims with their local authority, or alternatively, submit them to their village head. These claims will be forwarded weekly to the Subang Jaya City Council (MBSJ).
"For repair and restoration works, Sime Darby will handle works in Putra Harmoni as the developer, while Kampung Kuala Sungai Baru will be managed by Syarikat Perumahan Negara Berhad (SPNB).
"Reconstruction of homes will include basic amenities such as wiring, lighting, and ceiling fans to ensure the homes are habitable. Additional fittings and accessories will not be covered," he added.
