Sarawak sets up gas safety corridor to prevent incidents similar to Putra Heights.

KUCHING, April 3 — The Sarawak government has introduced a dedicated safety corridor as part of its risk-control measures to prevent gas-related incidents like the one in Putra Heights, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He stated that this proactive initiative, part of the Sarawak Gas Roadmap, focuses on establishing buffer zones through the gazettement of specific areas to mitigate potential hazards.

"This includes locations such as Samalaju, which will be designated as safety zones to minimize the risk of gas explosions," he said in a report by the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas).

Abang Johari made these remarks at the Hari Raya open house hosted by Tupong assemblyman and Chief Political Secretary to the Premier, Dato Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman.

Also in attendance were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, and Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali.

Strengthening Gas Safety Measures

Abang Johari further explained that the dedicated corridor will play a vital role in detecting and managing hazardous gases, particularly high-pressure gas, which poses a greater risk.

This measure aims to enhance risk monitoring and control in key industrial zones, ensuring long-term public safety.

"We have two types of gas—low-pressure gas used in residential pipelines, which is generally not dangerous, and high-pressure gas, which carries a greater risk due to its intensity and potential for serious incidents," he noted.

Tuesday’s massive gas pipeline fire in Putra Heights forced hundreds of residents to flee as the intense heat destroyed homes and vehicles. — The Borneo Post