The landslide that happened at Batang Kali on 16 December is very saddening. As of the time of writing, TV3 has reported that there were 21 deaths and 12 victims still missing. 61 victims were saved.
In order to stop this tragedy from reoccurring soon, the Selangor government has issued a directive asking for all picnic and camping sites to close down for 7 days starting from 17 December 2022.
The Pahang forestry department, JPNP, is following suit by closing all camping sites near rivers or high-risk areas such as those near cliffs and waterfalls. This ban will be in effect immediately until further notice.
They said, “This closure involves the camping site managed by JPNP and private operators such as Taman Eko-Rimba Lubuk Yu, Maran and Taman Eko-Rimba Parit Falls, Cameron Highlands.”
JPNP further advised the public to be vigilant.
“During this monsoon season, the public is advised to not do any recreational activities in high risk areas to avoid unwanted incidents.”
The Johor forestry department also issued the same notice: “all Taman Eko Rimba, hiking tracks, 4×4 dirt roads in permanent forest reserves will be closed to the public starting from 17 December.”
KPKT, the Ministry of Housing and Local Government has echoed the same sentiments by issuing an infographic.
The poster educates the public on things that we should not do during the North-East monsoon period.
They are:
- Avoid going to places with bodies of water (sea, river, lakes, pools)
- Do not go near risky cliffs
- Listen to the instructions of authorities
- Check the weather forecast and warnings that MET Malaysia issued
We hope that the remaining victims will be found soon. Together, let’s pray for those who have departed and those who have yet to be found.
Also read: Batang Kali Landslide: Father’s Organic Farm Has Been Operating Without License Since 2020
