THE developer of the affordable apartment project in Lembah Permai, Tanjung Bungah, where a landslide occurred this morning burying 14 workers, has set up its own investigation team to work alongside the authorities.

Taman Sri Bunga Sdn Bhd, a unit of BSG Property, a major Penang-based development firm, also expressed “deep regret” over the incident, which occurred while the workers were conducting soil nailing works to enhance the stability of the temporary slope to facilitate the construction.

The developer said at all times, the company takes reasonable steps and is always responsible about conducting periodical maintenance work on the land.

“The sudden incident was unexpected. We have immediately responded to the disaster after the incident to minimise further casualties.

“We have already set up our own investigation team to work with the authorities on the incident.

“We extend our deep condolences to the family members of those involved. We are ready to assist and answer any further inquiries on the matter,” the developer said in a statement.

The landslide occurred about 8.30am this morning on Lorong Lembah Permai 3, where the developer is building a 50-storey affordable apartment project.

Of the 14 workers buried in the landslide, one is a Malaysian. The rest are foreign nationals.

Three bodies of one Myanmar national and two Bangladeshis were recovered earlier today.

The search for the rest of the victims are still under way.

In a latest update late this afternoon, Penang police chief commissioner Chuah Ghee Lye said the digging had stopped to allow four dogs from the canine unit to search for survivors.

He also said personnel from the General Operations Force were checking hillslopes in the area for illegal structures. – October 21, 2017.