By : Mike Paul
Kuala Lumpur, Jan 13— A powerful explosion at HELP University’s Bukit Damansara campus killed one maintenance worker and injured nine others after an air‑conditioning compressor malfunctioned at about 11.40am Monday, triggering a campus‑wide evacuation and major emergency response.
Police confirmed the fatality was a 24‑year‑old contractor who later died at Kuala Lumpur Hospital, while the injured included two technicians, four students, one administrative staff member and two foreign cafeteria workers believed to be Indonesian nationals. Victims were treated at Kuala Lumpur Hospital, Universiti Malaya Medical Centre and Sungai Buloh Hospital.
Witnesses reported a loud detonation, flying debris and thick smoke from the fourth‑floor maintenance zone near the cafeteria. Kuala Lumpur Police Chief Datuk Fadil Marsus said: “The number of victims has now been confirmed at ten, including one fatality. We are conducting a full technical and criminal investigation to determine whether safety procedures were followed.”
The Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) deployed hazardous materials teams to secure the site. A spokesperson said: “Our early findings point to a failure within the compressor unit, most likely involving a pressurised gas leak. The area has been stabilised and declared safe.”
HELP University said it activated emergency protocols immediately and will keep the affected building closed until inspections are complete. “The safety of our students, staff and visitors remains our highest priority. The affected building will remain closed until all structural and mechanical safety inspections are completed,” the university said in a statement, adding that counselling and welfare support have been offered to those affected.
Safety experts note the incident underscores the need for stricter contractor certification, more frequent mechanical inspections and clearer emergency coordination between campuses and authorities. Investigators are expected to examine the failed compressor unit, contractor records and HVAC safety management before deciding on regulatory or criminal action.
- TNS News