A colossal fire erupted in the Putra Heights suburb outside Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on April 1, 2025, following a significant gas pipeline leak operated by the state energy firm Petronas. The inferno, described as a towering fireball, was visible for several kilometers and has left at least 145 people injured, with many requiring hospitalization for burns and respiratory issues, according to local authorities and reports.

The blaze was reported around 8:10 AM, coinciding with the public holiday marking the second day of Eid celebrations, when hundreds of residents were enjoying festivities. Immediately after the fire broke out, the Selangor Fire and Rescue Department was dispatched to the scene, where they identified a leaking gas pipeline as the primary cause. Victims described hearing loud explosions, with reports of their doors and windows shaking from the vibrations of the fire and explosions. Over 49 homes suffered damage, and approximately 364 individuals were displaced, many of whom are currently at temporary evacuation centers set up in local mosques.

The situation escalated quickly, prompting local officials, including Selangor Chief Minister Amirudin Shari, to urge residents to stay clear of the danger zone while investigations commenced. The Selangor police initiated an inquiry into the possibility that construction work on nearby land—allegedly related to the incident—may have led to the explosion. “We will refer to Petronas and the local council to determine if the contractor had the necessary permits,” said district police chief Azlan Wan Mamat, indicating an investigation into the construction activities occurring in close proximity to the pipeline.

Witness accounts noted the intense heat and size of the flames. One victim, Lee Weng Ken, recounted his horror as he fled his house, which was engulfed in flames. "I rushed out of my house but fell and suffered burns due to the heat from the blaze," he shared with Channel News Asia.

The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, assured that the federal government, along with Petronas, would oversee repairing the extensive damage, which could take over a year to restore. “We understand that our citizens need immediate support. We will provide financial aid of RM5,000 (about US$1123) to those whose homes were destroyed,” he stated. Despite the magnitude of the incident, no fatalities have been reported as emergency services continue to assess the situation.

As the investigation continues, local residents feel a mixture of disbelief and anger, questioning how such a disaster could occur during the festivities. Many are calling for accountability from both the state and the contractors involved in construction activities near the site of the explosion.

For further information on this developing story, visit SCMP.