KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — A dramatic fire ignited by a ruptured gas pipeline sent fiery plumes high into the sky outside Malaysia’s largest city, injuring 145 people, according to local authorities. This intense blaze persisted for several hours before being extinguished late Tuesday.
The incident originated from a gas pipeline owned by the national oil company, Petronas, situated on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur. The ferocious flames, reportedly rising as high as 20 stories, left a sizable crater in an open field adjacent to a residential area, sparking chaos and concern among the local populace.
Malaysia’s Health Minister, Dzulkefly Ahmad, shared that 145 individuals sustained injuries, including three children. Among those affected, 67 remain hospitalized, predominantly suffering from severe second and third-degree burns, while an additional 37 sought assistance from nearby clinics and private medical facilities.
The fire did significant damage, affecting 190 houses and causing destruction to 148 vehicles, according to the fire department. As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, authorities have declared homes within 290 meters from the explosion site off-limits until further notice.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim surveyed the damage firsthand, engaging with affected residents. He pledged government support, stating that both the government and Petronas would finance the repairs, although the restoration of homes may require several months.
The explosion was so powerful that residents reported feeling strong tremors, with some experiencing structural damage. Lee Weng Ken, who suffered burns to his leg, recounted his experience: “I rushed out of my house but fell and suffered burns due to the heat from the blaze,” he told local media.
Another local, identified only as Andy, described the suddenness of the incident. He explained how he, along with his children, fled their home upon feeling the tremors and seeing the inferno approximately 100 meters away. Unfortunately, his 18-year-old daughter was injured while escaping. “My daughter injured her foot when she fell while climbing the fence due to the heat,” he said.