Set up inquiry commission to probe warehouse collapse – group

Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) called for the immediate setting up of a commission of inquiry, to investigate an incident where a logistics warehouse, under construction in Batu Maung, Bayan Lepas collapsed on Tuesday night.

Its president Mohideen Abdul Kader said CAP also wants the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and comprehensive investigation to determine the cause of the accident.

“The Penang Island City Council (MBPP), the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) and the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) should thoroughly investigate the incident, and take strict action against those responsible for the accident,” he said, in a statement today.

Given the proximity of the incident site to the beach, which is composed of sand and gravel, Mohideen emphasised that any structure built in the area must be completely safe.

He called for all safety measures to be considered, especially geological studies.

Consumers Association of Penang president Mohideen Abdul Kader

In the 9.58pm incident on Nov 28, three Bangladeshi workers were killed and another two, who were critically injured, are receiving treatment at Penang Hospital.

Mohideen also cited two major incidents in the past, namely the collapse of the scaffolding on the Penang Second Bridge, and the collapse of the wall fins in a 21-storey building, where the commission of inquiry, established by the Penang government, found incompetence and negligence.

He added that such an incident should be given attention because it involves many parties, in addition to involving the lives of workers.

“Firm action taken can send a message to construction companies that the law must be obeyed at all times, and that the owner of the premises must be responsible for accidents which occur,” he said.

- Bernama