Reuters reported that a serious fire broke out on the morning of April 1 at a gas pipeline operated by Malaysia's state-owned energy group Petronas, injuring at least 63 people and requiring hospitalization.
The fire broke out in Puchong town, Selangor state, on the outskirts of the capital Kuala Lumpur. Images and videos circulating on social media show a giant orange flame rising in the sky, accompanied by thick black smoke.
According to initial information, those hospitalized were mainly burned, had respiratory problems or were injured due to the impact of the fire.
Firefighters said the valve on the 500m long pipeline had been locked to isolate the fire. However, the fire still affected 49 houses in the vicinity, forcing authorities to urgently evacuate.
The witnesses described the chaotic scene when ambulances continuously rushed to the fire area, while the authorities blocked off the entire scene to ensure safety.
By early afternoon, the intensity of the fire had decreased, but there was still a huge amount of smoke emerging from the scene, according to Reuters reporters about 5km away.
There have been no reports of casualties, but Malaysian authorities have not yet determined the specific extent of the damage.
Petronas Group affirmed that it is closely coordinating with authorities to ensure the safety of the surrounding community, the environment and national gas supply.
The Malaysian government has set up relief centers at two nearby Hoi giaoes to support affected people.
