Speaking to FMT, Center to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4) executive director Cynthia Gabriel said MACC must find out whether procedures were followed since cladding panels were used on the building’s exterior despite their flammable characteristic.

“Safety standards were not met and the public has the right to know why. The investigations must be transparent as the building involved public funds,” she said.

“MACC must ensure that the probe is thoroughly conducted, and all responsible parties brought to book.”

According to the Fire and Rescue Department, flammable cladding, ignited by sparks during maintenance work, had caused the rapid spread of the fire.

The department’s deputy director-general (operations), Soiman Jahid, said the cladding used on the building’s exterior was made of polyfoam.

He added that it was an offence for contractors to use such flammable materials and that the contractor had not obtained approval or the required safety certificate from his department.

Cynthia compared the fire at the EPF building with the Grenfell Tower fire in London on June 14 last year, which resulted in 71 deaths. Flammable padding was also used on that building.

“This is unfortunately similar to the Grenfell Tower tragedy in London. Did we not learn from these tragedies?”

Kelana Jaya MP Wong Chen also supported the call for a full probe by the relevant authorities, including MACC.

“If the fire post-mortem shows possible fault of contractors, then MACC should investigate how these contracts were awarded to identify whether any kickbacks were involved,” he said.

Flammable cladding blamed for rapid spread of fire at EPF building