The fire, which broke out in the early hours, sent blinding orange flames and thick smoke billowing into the sky, visible from miles away. Panic and chaos followed as a thunderous explosion rocked the area.
"The fire was raging high, and suddenly, burning debris started falling everywhere—then we knew something terrible had happened," said Raja Hilmy Bin Raja Idris, a resident whose home was 1 km from the blast site.
Another witness, Evian Wee, described the terrifying moment, initially thinking it was a tornado or earthquake before realizing it was a massive pipeline explosion.
Despite the devastation, no fatalities have been reported, and officials confirmed that all hospitalized victims are in stable condition. The injured suffered burns, respiratory issues, and other injuries caused by flying debris and shattered glass.
Petronas announced that it had isolated the affected pipeline and was working with authorities to ensure the safety of the community and the nation's gas supply.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim assured the public that Petronas and the government would take full responsibility for restoring the area, a process that could take up to a year.
"Our priority is safety. A thorough investigation is underway, and financial aid will be provided to those affected," the PM stated.
As the nation reels from the disaster, affected families are now seeking urgent relief and support, with the government promising a swift recovery effort.
