Empire Shopping Gallery closed temporarily

KUALA LUMPUR: Acting on the advice of the Fire and Rescue Services Department and in the interest of public safety, the management of Empire Shopping Gallery has taken the decision to halt all operations following a gas explosion early Wednesday morning, Sept 28, that caused extensive damage to the mall's lower floors and injuring four people.

The closure will cover the entire complex that houses a hotel, commercial and residential units. A minimum of 40 retail outlets and business premises may have been damaged by the blast.

"We have taken the decision to halt operations as safety is our highest priority. We assure all our tenants that this decision has been made after carefully considering all factors and advice from the authorities," said Empire Shopping Gallery general manager May Woo.

"Empire Shopping Gallery prides itself on providing a quality retail experience and we will do whatever necessary under this circumstance to facilitate that, moving forward."

Woo added that tight security has been implemented around the premises. Investigations are currently on-going with the Fire Department expected to release the preliminary report within the next 48 hours.

Further notice will be given until the structure of the mall is deemed safe by the authorities.

"I urge all parties to refrain from speculation, and allow the authorities to carry out their investigations. We are also anxious to find out what caused this incident," said May.

May further said that tight security has been implemented around the premises. The public can get updates from the mall's website (www.esg.com.my), Facebook (www.facebook/esg.com.my) and Twitter (Empire SHGallery.com). Alternatively, they can call 018-701 2880.