Firework Blast Victim Transferred To Penang Hospital

KULIM, Oct 20 (Bernama) -- A victim, who suffered serious injuries in a fireworks explosion in Paya Besar near here early today, has been transferred to Penang Hospital, while five others are still being treated in the red zone of Kulim Hospital.

Special officer to the Home Minister, Saiful Ambar Abdullah Ambar, said the five comprised a girl, a woman and three men.

"Based on the information received, there are altogether 22 victims. We will try to trace others who have returned home after receiving treatment,” he told reporters after visiting the victims at Kulim Hospital.

He did not rule out the possibility that others had sought treatment on their own at clinics for minor injuries.

"We will try to assist the affected victims. As for the blast, I think it is best to wait for the investigation report from the authorities," he said.

Meanwhile, one of the victims, Nurzaina Ismail, 47, said she had gone out to enjoy the festive atmosphere of the Deepavali celebrations last night as she lives nearby.

“My family and I were there when it happened. During the peak of the celebration, they were lighting fireworks. Suddenly, I felt pain and heat in my abdomen and legs, and realised I was injured.

"I couldn't walk and my children immediately sent me to the hospital. I went to see it too last year since it's close to my home, but this is the first time something went awry," she said.

R. Pasupathi, 74, said he was merely passing through the area some 50 metres away when he was hit by fragments from the exploding fireworks.

"I was behind a car when I heard an explosion and when fragments hit my hand, I immediately felt the stinging pain. 

“I just wanted to enjoy the festive atmosphere, but not like this, I'm far from happy now," he said.

-- BERNAMA