'Explosion' sound startles PKNS headquarters
'Thick plumes of smoke' were seen billowing from several sections as employees rushed to evacuate via staircases.
SHAH ALAM – The sound of an 'explosion' shattered the calm at the Selangor State Development Corporation (PKNS) headquarters here on Thursday, sparking panic among staff in the building.
Thick plumes of smoke were seen billowing from several sections as employees rushed to evacuate via staircases, following emergency instructions.
However, the tense situation was part of a fire simulation exercise.
Senior Fire Officer I Mohd Syarim A. Malek, who also served as Simulation Exercise Chief from the Section 15 Fire and Rescue Station, said such drills are crucial in bridging theory, practice and real-life situations.
“This exercise allows us to differentiate between theory, practice and reality. When equipped with both theoretical and practical knowledge, we will know how to respond correctly.
“The concept is simple, correct what is common and make what is correct common. Every exercise reveals weaknesses, which we can then improve on,” he said.
He said the drill simulated a fire and explosion, beginning with an emergency alarm before staff were instructed to evacuate.
Four victims were simulated, with two rescued by the PKNS Emergency Response Team (ERT) and the other two by the Fire and Rescue Department.
“The Fire Department arrived within two minutes and 13 seconds. Initial action was taken based on the incident commander’s report.
“One victim who could not descend from a higher floor was rescued using a roping method, while another was saved using an aerial ladder platform from the fourth floor of one of the affected blocks,” he said.
He added that the exercise benefits not only PKNS but also helps raise public awareness on how to respond during emergencies.
Meanwhile, PKNS Human Resources General Manager Azura Ramli said the exercise reflects the organisation’s ongoing commitment to safety and well-being.
“This exercise ensures all staff are prepared for real emergencies, including understanding evacuation routes, assembly points and their roles.
“We also assess evacuation time, procedural compliance, communication effectiveness and coordination between the PKNS ERT and the Fire Department to identify areas for improvement,” she said.
She added that such drills will be conducted regularly to strengthen preparedness and safeguard lives and organisational assets.
“For PKNS, safety is not just about compliance, but an investment in protecting lives and ensuring operations continue safely,” she said.
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