By Siti Rohaizah Zainal
SUBANG JAYA, July 4 — The Selangor government is open to an independent inquiry into the gas explosion incident at Putra Heights should any party seek one, said Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari.
The state has not hidden any findings from the detailed probe into the incident, which was carried out using soil samples and samples from the exploded gas pipe, as well as through the study of water movements underground.
“There have been accusations that we are hiding information, even though our investigations were carried out in extreme detail. There’s also talk that I myself have concealed the findings. For that, please refer to the police and the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH).
“Worse still, some people are saying that a Menteri Besar Selangor Incorporated, or MBI, project is involved, which is furthest from the truth and the most vicious,” said Amirudin.
“It’s now up to them if they want to conduct their own investigations. We welcome it, although it must be said that our findings were exhaustive and thorough.”
Amirudin also added that it is not in the state government’s interest to put blame on any party or get anyone in trouble.
“Our only focus, now that the report is out, is to see what needs to be done and what must be done to prevent a similar tragedy,” he said.
Amirudin was met by reporters after attending The Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation’s (Sidec) 10th anniversary celebrations here last night.
He also told the media that a special briefing on the report will be carried out with state representatives and parliamentarians.
“I will give a detailed briefing, focusing on the technical aspects of the findings, to any state representative and parliamentarian wanting to know more about the investigations,” he said.
“You can publish the details of my briefing, but in due time,” he added.
Previously, it was reported that the Kampung Kuala Sungai Baru Residents’ Welfare Association (KKSB) was not satisfied after the police classified the case as requiring no further action (NFA).
In the incident at 8.10 am on April 1, a Petronas gas pipe exploded, sending flames as high as 30 meters into the air. Firemen took eight hours to put out the blaze, which reached more than a thousand degrees Celcius.
