Following the tragic incident of the landslide in Batang Kali, you would think that Malaysians would avoid places with warnings of potential disasters, right?
Wrong.
BERNAMA took to their Twitter page to showcase Malaysians bathing in a river and enjoying themselves at the Hutan Lipur Ulu Bendul (a protected forest area for recreational use) in Negeri Sembilan despite the spot being temporarily CLOSED due to the risk of floods.
They wrote, “Stubborn or careless? There are a handful of individuals who still visit the Ulu Bendul Forest Recreation Center, Kuala Pilah, Negeri Sembilan even though the area is temporarily closed as a precautionary measure following the monsoon season and the risk of headwater (a phenomenon that refers to the sudden and rapid rise in water volume and velocity in the upper part of a river) there.”
What makes the situation so much more concerning is the fact that signages and warnings have been posted up in regards to the temporary closures and the risk of floods, and yet, they were disregarded.
“Closure notices and warning tape have been installed at Taman Ular Ulu Bentul and at the entrance to Gunung Angsi via the old Bukit Putus road. The closure is made as a precautionary measure until a later date,” they added.
We genuinely hope that Malaysians heed the warnings from the local authorities and not put themselves and their loved ones in danger.
What do you think about this whole situation? Do feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section.
Also read: Batang Kali Landslide: First Responder Shares Experience of Ongoing SAR Operations