Kulim Deepavali fireworks explosion: What we know so far

SHAH ALAM – What began as a night of joy and light in Kulim, Kedah, turned into chaos and panic when a fireworks explosion injured at least 22 people along Jalan Paya Besar in the early hours of Oct 20.

The incident, which occurred around 12.45am, has since led to the arrest of two suspects as police investigate whether negligence or illegal fireworks triggered the massive blast.

A festive night turned horrific

Hundreds had gathered along Jalan Paya Besar to watch fireworks in conjunction with Deepavali when the explosion suddenly ripped through the crowd.

Kulim district police chief Supt Zulkifli Azizan said the blast scattered debris and injured dozens of onlookers.

“Several people were injured after the fireworks exploded unexpectedly. Two ambulances were dispatched to provide initial treatment before the victims were sent to Kulim Hospital,” he said.

“One man sustained a deep five-centimetre cut on his forehead, while others suffered burns and minor injuries. The situation was quickly brought under control after the injured were sent for treatment,” he added.

Eyewitness accounts of terror

Photo for illustrative purposes only - CANVA

Witnesses described the scene as chaotic and terrifying, with screams and smoke filling the street as people fled for safety.

Pasupathi Ratnam, 74, from Bertam, Penang, said he had stopped to watch the fireworks when the explosion went off.

“This Deepavali has been anything but joyful for me. The pain is severe. Actually, many more were affected — probably closer to 30 than what was reported,” he said.

“It was really bad. I remember hearing children crying. It could have been worse. I saw with my own eyes someone losing five fingers,” he added.

Pasupathi, who was about 50 metres from the fireworks site, suffered a broken arm and deep lacerations. He believes the fireworks used were modified and urged authorities to tighten safety regulations.

“Authorities must take action and ensure proper guidelines are in place so this does not happen again. Deepavali is the Festival of Lights, but this is not how we should celebrate it,” he said.

Another victim, Norzaina Ismail, 46, a factory operator from Kulim, said she was standing across the street when the fireworks overheated and exploded.

“It fired once, then exploded into pieces. I felt sharp pain but could still walk. Then my arms and legs began swelling and I couldn’t walk anymore,” she said.

Meanwhile, Gayathiri Ramara, 25, said her 15-year-old sister was recording the fireworks when the explosion happened.

“She suffered bad injuries to her arms and legs. It’s really heartbreaking to see her like this. I just hope she recovers well,” she said.

Two men arrested

Following the blast, police arrested two men aged 23 and 34 in Taman Senangin and Paya Besar after a 22-second video of the explosion went viral.

Zulkifli said the older suspect, from Bandar Baru Sentul, works in customer service and has one prior criminal record. The younger suspect, a shop assistant from Lunas, also has a previous record.

Investigations revealed that the 34-year-old suspect was intoxicated when he purchased a powerful firework known as “kelapa” for RM200 from a roadside stall.

“The suspect placed the firework, but it failed to launch and exploded on the ground. We believe he inserted it upside down while intoxicated,” said Zulkifli.

The blast injured 22 people, including one man who suffered a fractured forehead and was referred to Penang Hospital.

So far, police have recorded statements from 10 victims and identified the firework seller. The case is being investigated under Section 8 of the Explosives Act 1957 and Section 326 of the Penal Code for causing grievous harm.

Government response

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail’s special officer, Saiful Ambar Abdullah Ambar, said the minister has been briefed on the incident.

“The Home Minister has been informed, and investigations are underway. Action will be taken against those responsible once the probe concludes,” he said.

Authorities are now working to determine whether the fireworks were legally purchased, illegally modified, or improperly handled.

The Kulim explosion has reignited calls for tighter control of fireworks sales and usage, especially during festive seasons.