Mechanical engineering intern, 24, killed in air conditioning compressor explosion at Bukit Damansara campus
PETALING JAYA: The individual who died in yesterday’s explosion at HELP University in Bukit Damansara has been identified as a university student who was just days away from completing his industrial placement.
According to The Star, Soo Yu Juan, 24, was a third-year Mechanical Engineering student from Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) who had recently celebrated his birthday. He was scheduled to finish his industrial training this Thursday, January 15.
Prof Chang Yoong Choon, Dean of UTAR’s Faculty of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, explained that practical training placements are mandatory components of engineering degree programs, designed to give students hands-on experience in professional settings.
“The university is deeply shocked by this unexpected tragedy. The student was at the site performing routine duties connected to air conditioning maintenance,” Chang stated.
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The dean confirmed that UTAR provides insurance protection for all enrolled students, which extends to incidents that occur during practical training periods.
“We will file the insurance claim once we have gathered all necessary documentation. I am personally overseeing this matter on behalf of the university as we remain committed to supporting the student’s family through this difficult time,” he added.
Chang noted that the company where the victim was training has pledged to offer assistance, including help with funeral arrangements. Authorities are still working to establish the precise cause of the incident, with the Fire and Rescue Department conducting an ongoing investigation.
The campus implemented immediate evacuation procedures following the explosion in accordance with established emergency protocols.
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The explosion occurred on the morning of January 12 in a maintenance section near the university’s fourth-floor cafeteria, involving an air conditioning compressor unit.
Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Fadil Marsus indicated that investigators believe a gas leak from the compressor system triggered the blast.
Nine additional people sustained injuries in the incident: two external contractors, one internal technician, two cafeteria staff members, and four students.
Preliminary police findings have ruled out any criminal involvement in the explosion.
Emergency responders at the scene reported that the explosion occurred without producing visible flames.
