FOR many years, Penang has been restricting and controlling developments which are conducted on slope land.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said developments were not allowed on Class Three and Four slopes and if earthworks were necessary, they had to comply with various geotechnical requirements.
“We have been doing this for many years and not only on campsites; but also other developments such as high-rises, and others which involved even larger footprints and more intensive constructions,” he replied a journalist regarding the safety of campsites in Penang, following the fateful landslide incident at a popular campsite in Batang Kali.
Chow highlighted the use of the Penang Safety Guideline for Hill Site Development (2nd edition 2020) which was a revised version of the 2012 guideline and has been prepared to further enhance the safety and sustainability of hill site developments.
“We are saddened by the news of the landslide tragedy in Batang Kali. Our hearts go out to the friends and families of the victims during this difficult time.
“Campsites of other developments should only be allowed after they have obtained the necessary approvals, and not build then try to apply for the approvals,” he said.
Chow said he was aware that the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) had approved the development of the Boulder Valley Glamping in Teluk Bahang.
“Boulder Valley had gone through all the rezoning and planning processes before finally completing its development.
“It has been open for a few years now.
“This project is different (from the impacted campsite in Batang Kali) because it is an approved project that has gone through various planning and engineering processes.
“We believe projects such as this can only be approved after they have complied with all the requirements,” he said.
Chow said there might be some campsites which have been set up without approvals.
“Depending on their locations, they may pose safety concerns especially if they are located in hilly areas.
“Developments near the slope must always monitor their slopes.
“Penang Hill is one good example. The slopes have been monitored regularly, but the hill still experienced many landslides in the past. Landslides are still occurring.
“Hence, developments near the slope must always monitor their slope. If necessary, they need to strengthen the slope by building enforcement structures,” he added.
Later in the evening, Chow said the local councils were enforcing the instruction by the Local Government Development Ministry.
It was reported that its minister Nga Kor Ming had instructed all 155 local councils nationwide to check and vacate campsites along and around high-risk areas, including waterfalls, near riverbanks and hillslopes for seven days effective immediately. He was quoted as saying the directive would remain until further notice.
Chow said the local councils have identified campsites in both Penang island and Seberang Perai.
“We have Kampung Agong and the Suling Hill campsite in Seberang Perai; and Boulder Valley and the Penang Hill campsite in Penang island.
“There are not many campsites in Penang.
“We urge the operators to comply with the ministry’s order,” he said.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi