Five Pakistani nationals have been hailed as heroes after risking their lives to rescue terrified residents during a devastating gas pipeline fire in Putra Heights, Malaysia. Their brave act has earned them widespread acclaim on social media, as well as official recognition from the Pakistani Embassy in Malaysia.
The five men—Khaista Nawab (50), Bakht Munir (37), Amir Nawab (47), Rafiq Ullah (25), and Jaafar Ali (40)—were honored with certificates of appreciation presented by a representative of the Pakistan High Commissioner to Malaysia in a ceremony at his office.
The incident unfolded in a densely populated area, where a gas pipeline explosion sparked a massive blaze, forcing dozens to flee toward a nearby canal. As panic-stricken residents, including women and children, jumped into the water, unaware of its hidden dangers, these courageous men stepped up.
Despite knowing the canal was infested with crocodiles, they waded into the waters without hesitation. They saved dozens of drowning victims, carrying many on their shoulders to safety.
Videos of their extraordinary efforts quickly went viral, earning praise across Malaysia.
Originally from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, the men have lived in Malaysia for years, earning their livelihoods.
Khaista Nawab shared details of the rescue, explaining how they navigated the river, which was over 40 meters wide and nearly 2 meters deep, to lead approximately 30 residents to safety. Their selfless actions ensured the survival of children and the elderly during this harrowing ordeal.
