Pipeline blaze: Selangor PAS Youth slams CIDB, warns against 'cover up'

Selangor PAS Youth criticised the Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia (CIDB) after it retracted its initial statement that no construction activities were taking place when a gas pipeline fire broke out in Putra Heights.

“The initial statement denied the existence of any construction activities, only to be retracted after dashcam footage from local residents exposed otherwise.

“This is extremely shameful and raises a big question - who is being protected?” asked the wing’s chief Sukri Omar in a statement today.

He also cautioned against attempts to use Petronas as a scapegoat to cover up the failures of other parties.

Selangor PAS Youth chief Sukri Omar

“If Petronas is indeed negligent, it must be proven professionally.

“However, if this is just a tactic to deflect attention from the negligence of contractors or local enforcement agencies, we cannot remain silent,” he added.

Three demands

Sukri reminded the government that the people are not foolish, and a “cover-up” would only breed anger and erode public trust.

In light of this, Selangor PAS Youth issued three demands:

• Immediate and transparent clarification from the government and CIDB.

• An independent and transparent investigation without political interference.

• Firm action against any parties found negligent, without compromise.

• “The safety of the people is not a subject for experimentation or political bargaining. We will continue to monitor this issue and will not hesitate to mobilise if the government continues to play games and fails to be honest.

“The people have the right to know. The truth must be upheld,” Sukri emphasised.

CIDB assures cooperation

Earlier, Malaysiakini reported that CIDB explained that the decision to retract its earlier statement was made to avoid pre-empting the ongoing investigation, which involves multiple authorities.

As the agency responsible for the development of Malaysia’s construction industry, CIDB assured its full cooperation with the authorities conducting the investigation.

“CIDB apologises for any confusion or concern caused by the statement, especially to the affected residents.

“We understand the difficulties they are facing and are committed to addressing this matter with integrity and transparency,” it added. - Mkini