KUCHING: The Social Welfare Department (JKM) has been directed to open additional temporary relief centres (PPS) to accommodate victims of the Putra Heights gas pipeline explosion, said Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
The Women, Family and Community Development Minister said that there are 484 victims from 109 families taking shelter at the Putra Heights Mosque.
However, some are still receiving treatment at the hospital.
As of 11 am today, the victims comprised of 290 adults, 135 children, 21 babies, 34 senior citizens, and four persons with disablities.
Nancy pointed out that the victims cannot stay at the mosque for a long period of time.
“Hence, we will discuss to see what we can do as there are space constraints at the PPS due to a large number of donations.
“For now, the public and organisations intending to donate in kind, are advised to temporarily postpone their contributions.
“They can contact JKM to discuss the appropriate form of assistance to be channelled,” she said when met by reporters during the Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof’s Hari Raya Open House at CIDB Convention Centre today.
In addition, a one-stop social support centre (PSSS) truck has been mobilised to the PPS to provide counselling and psychological assistance for the victims.
“Some of the victims may experience depression due to this incident, especially for those celebrating Hari Raya,” the Santubong Member of Parliament said.
