GEORGE TOWN – Bagan MP Lim Guan Eng has denied claims that the development project at the landslide site in Taman Seri Rambai, Paya Terubong, Penang, was approved during his tenure as Penang Chief Minister from 2008 to 2018.
“I deny that the project was approved during my tenure as Chief Minister.
“The project involving the developer was actually approved in 2023,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.
On Sunday, a 73-year-old doctor, Wong Kar Lin, died after being buried in a landslide at about 8.36am. The landslide also affected his home.
The victim’s wife, Chang Mei Nuo, 68, and his mother-in-law, Wong Poh Lim, who is in her 80s, managed to escape.
Guan Eng, who is also the Air Putih assemblyman, said the state government had previously stated that the land involved belonged to the developer and landowner, while slope stabilisation works had yet to be carried out.
“In this regard, I urge Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and state executive councillor for Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Affairs Zairil Khir Johari to ensure that all parties responsible face appropriate action.
“This is necessary to ensure justice for the victim’s family, who have lost a loved one in the tragedy,” he said.
Kon Yeow was previously reported as saying that the landowner and developer must take responsibility for the incident while the state government awaited a comprehensive report.
He said both parties must carry out mitigation works to ensure the safety of the area.
Kon Yeow also said those involved must face legal consequences if any violations relating to development plan approvals were found, adding that remedial measures and slope stabilisation works must be carried out.
However, Guan Eng stressed that action should not be limited to the landowner and developer, but should also extend to any other parties found responsible.
Meanwhile, Guan Eng extended his condolences to the victim’s family and expressed hope that they would find the strength to get through this difficult time.