This article first appeared in The Edge Financial Daily on January 14, 2020 - January 20, 2020

KUALA LUMPUR: Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) confirms that the Sabah-Sarawak Gas Pipeline (SSGP) suffered a pipe rupture and fire yesterday.

In a statement, the national oil company said the rupture and ensuing fire occurred four kilometres from Long Selulong, Ulu Baram Miri at 1.59am yesterday morning.

“The fire has been put under control and Petronas is closely monitoring the situation.

“We would like to inform that no injuries were reported. The relevant authorities have been notified and we will continue to engage with the communities in the surrounding area.

“An investigation into the incident is currently ongoing and we wish to assure the public that the safety of the people and environment remains our utmost priority and concern,” Petronas said.

Meanwhile, Selangau member of parliament and Works Minister Baru Bian expressed his shock over the incident. Baru Bian said that there were five Penan villages near the pipeline.

According to the Marudi police chief, three pipelines were fully sealed and secured before 3am yesterday.

“I am very concerned as this is the fourth incident after the one at Long Segaman, Lawa, in early May last year.

“Again, I request for a swift and thorough investigation into how fires can erupt along the pipeline, and that I be fully briefed on the same soonest,” said the minister.