THE authorities must immediately conduct inspections on all hillslope and hillside properties around the country to prevent landslide tragedies, the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) said.

Its president Dr Muruga Raj Rajathurai said this immediate step was necessary following the tragedy in Batang Kali yesterday which has so far killed 21 people, with the search and rescue (SAR) operation to locate the remaining 12 victims resuming this morning.

“The risk needs to be immediately assessed as heavy rainfall is expected during this time of year. 

“The public need to also do their part in reporting any signs of possible landslides to the authorities as there may be new unidentified high-risk sites,” said Muruga in a statement.

He said that the worrying signs are already there with 121 landslides recorded during the northeast monsoon of 2021/2022.

At the same time, Malaysians had also been warned in March this year that there were more than 1,000 slopes around the country at risk of landslides, he added.

Muruga also said that all commercial and non-commercial high-rise buildings must also be checked for their certificate of fitness (CF) and all required licensing and safety approvals. 

“People residing or working in high-rise buildings on hillslope properties must be assured of their safety. We urge the authorities involved to swiftly carry out the necessary checks.  

“The fact that the campsites were unlicensed raises serious concerns which we hope the authorities will immediately address.”

Muruga added that many of the hillslope/hillside or riverside resorts are located far away from healthcare facilities and may be difficult to access even by road in the event of an emergency. 

“The Health Ministry will need to look into ensuring sufficient air ambulance services for such situations,” he said. – December 17, 2022.