EVERY state should emulate the Selangor government’s move to introduce camping guidelines, said a campsite operator.

Asia Camp Sdn Bhd’s owner Azizan Yunus said it was crucial that the guidelines are issued quickly as the industry had taken a hit following the deadly landslide in Batang Kali which had killed 31 campers.

He said guidelines would assure campers of safety.

Azizan also said that it would be better to have standardised safety guidelines for all states.

“It is good to have guidelines as part of long term safety measures.

“Camping is a nomadic activity where campers move from one place to another. Guidelines would make it easier for all,” he said.

Selangor menteri besar Amirudin Shari said that the state would be drafting guidelines following the landslide tragedy at Father’s Organic Farm campsite in Batang Kali recently.

“We will take measures and review (this matter) carefully because previously campsite operators did not need any licensing. We need to look into the matter but not to the extent of shutting down camping sites.

“We must act and look at the matter comprehensively, we can’t make a panicked and hasty decision, that’s why I need to see the report,” he said. 

The Selangor government has yet to issue any order for camping sites in the state to shut down operations following the tragedy.

Selangor’s local government committee chairman Ng Sze Han told The Malaysian Insight the state government’s guidelines on camping could be ready in about four months.

Azizan also said there has been a decline in business since the incident. 

“Compared to last year, this month we are expecting losses of up to 70%. 

“Even though restrictions are lifted, the demand is low,” he said. 

He said that school excursions, team building exercises and other programmes have declined this month. 

He said that according to their database, there are about 300 campsites in the country. His company has a stable of 30 handlers at various sites. 

The December 16 landslide tragedy that shook the nation involved 92 victims, of which 31 of them lost their lives in the rubble. –  January 9, 2023.