Batang Kali campsite illegally run, minister says as landslide toll hits 18

The campsite at Father’s Organic Farm in Batang Kali which became the scene of a tragic landslide early today had been operating illegally, says Local Government Development Minister Nga Kor Ming.

Nga, in confirming this, said the campsite was run without an operating licence from the Hulu Selangor district council. 

"This is an offence under Act 133, namely the Street Drainage and Building Act. 

"If convicted, the person (operator) can be sentenced to three years in prison or a fine of not more than RM50,000," he told reporters after checking on the search and rescue operations in the area today.

As of 5pm, the death toll had reached 18 victims with 15 still missing. 

Police said some 100 people were at the campsite when the landslide struck. 

Nga said all high-risk campsites across the country had been ordered to close for seven days from today.

He said the local authorities had been informed of the move, which was meant to prevent similar incidents especially given the ongoing northeast monsoon. 

"All campsites along rivers, waterfalls and even hillsides that may be dangerous will be immediately vacated for seven days. This situation will continue until new instructions are issued by the government.

"We will continue to monitor the situation at the scene and also the weather conditions. We will also work with the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) for a more accurate weather forecast," he said.

Meanwhile, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Sabah, Sarawak Affairs and Special Functions) Armizan Mohd Ali, when met the scene, said as of noon, a total of 628 rescue personnel from 16 agencies had been involved in the search and rescue operation.

He said the main focus of the operation was to rescue the victims suspected of being buried, while the health personnel were focused on treating the injured.

"We will also ensure the welfare of the victims by providing appropriate assistance which will be managed by the National Disaster Management Agency in collaboration with the disaster management committee at the district level," he said.