All outdoor activities to “cease with immediate effect”, says Penang city council

THE Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has announced a halt to all outdoor recreational activities on the island effective immediately.

According to the council, the decision was made in light of an announcement by the Malaysian meteorological department (MetMalaysia) last Friday warning of strong winds, heavy rain and thunderstorms that are expected to last until tomorrow (Dec 20).

“Trekking, hiking, camping and other activities in high-risk areas such as hill slopes, beach and flood-prone areas will cease with immediate effect,” the council said in a statement.

It further advised the public to stay vigilant and heed the weather warnings by MetMalaysia to avoid any untoward incidents, adding that they should always put safety first.

Last week, the Pahang fire and rescue department advised outdoor enthusiasts to postpone their hiking and picnic activities at recreational areas following bad weather.

On Friday, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail announced a freeze on all outdoor recreational activities around Batang Kali following a deadly landslide that buried three campsites.

According to news reports, 94 people were caught in the landslide, 24 have been confirmed dead while nine others are still missing. Search and rescue operations are still ongoing. – Dec 19, 2022

 

Main pic credit: Hpaper

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