Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has instructed for systematic search and rescue (SAR) operations to be carried out at a popular campsite in Batang Kali, Selangor, which experienced a landslide early today.
In a statement today, the premier said he was shocked to hear of the landslide at the Father’s Organic Farm camping site near Genting Highlands and would go to the site later today.
“I have received updates from the Natural Resources, Environment, and Climate Change Ministry, as well as the Selangor menteri besar on the SAR efforts at the site.
“I have ordered for thorough SAR operations to be conducted by all the related government agencies,” he said.
Anwar confirmed several ministers from his administration would go to the location of the landslide later today.
“However, I advise them (the ministers) to not disrupt the SAR efforts,” said Anwar, while urging fellow Malaysians to pray for the operations to proceed smoothly.
The landslide reportedly occurred around 3am this morning, covering an area of around one acre (0.4 hectare).
About 96 campers were believed to be affected by the tragedy. According to the latest update by the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma), as of 9.15am, a total of 92 victims have been found.
“53 of the victims were found safe, seven were hurt, while eight died. SAR efforts are ongoing,” said the agency in an update on Twitter.
Aside from Anwar, Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi is also expected to visit the site later today.
Natural Resources, Environment, and Climate Change Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad and Local Government Development Minister Nga Kor Ming are also expected.
Meanwhile, Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the matter was conveyed to him by Anwar when he contacted the prime minister this morning.
“I had a short conversation with the prime minister… he instructed deputy prime ministers and several ministers to visit the site,” he said according to Bernama.
“Insya-Allah the prime minister will visit the site tonight,” he said during a monthly assembly of the Ministry of Communications and Digital (KKD) in Putrajaya today.
Fahmi and ministry staff attending the assembly also observed a minute’s silence for victims of the landslide incident. - Mkini
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