Cover image via Ahmad Ukasyah/Berita Harian
Authorities have clamped down on access to the temporary relief centre at Masjid Putra Heights after victims of the recent gas pipeline explosion complained of being disturbed by social media influencers
Only Social Welfare Department (JKM) and Health Ministry (MOH) personnel are now permitted to enter the centre. All other parties, including Cabinet members, must obtain prior approval before entering.
Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the decision was made to protect the privacy, dignity, and health of residents affected by Tuesday's gas pipeline explosion in Putra Heights.
"We've received reports that some victims were already exhausted and fed up with constantly having to open the curtains of their tents for people walking in," he said at a press conference today, 4 April.
Amirudin said the temporary relief centre was not meant to become a site for casual visits or festive greetings
Among those showing up were influencers attempting to capture content at the centre, raising concerns about exploitation and insensitivity toward victims still recovering from the trauma of the explosion.
Amirudin did not name any individuals but confirmed that certain visitors had come under the pretext of "checking in" but ended up taking photos or engaging in Raya activities with victims.
"In addition, a special room has been provided for the victims' relatives to come and visit them, given that a few came to celebrate Raya at the relief centre," he added.
The relief centre currently shelters more than 300 victims from the gas pipeline fire that tore through the residential area on the second day of Hari Raya.
Image via Ahmad Ukasyah/Berita Harian
