‘Campsite operators observing closure order’

MPAJ enforcement officers making the rounds at camping and picnic spots in Kemensah.

CAMPING and recreational site operators in Ampang Jaya and Kajang are complying with Selangor government’s directive to close for a week, following the deadly landslide in Batang Kali near Genting Highlands on Dec 16.

The local authorities told StarMetro that compliance from operators was high, with officers continuing to monitor the situation until the directive is lifted.

Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) secretary Julaihah Jamaludin said its enforcement officers were making the rounds to ensure that operators were adhering to the state’s instructions.

“So far, the operators have been aware of the new instructions and have not been operating.

“Since Saturday, officers have made checks at 15 camping and picnic locations, especially in the Kampung Kemensah area,” she said.

Julaihah says 15 camping and picnic locations in Ampang Jaya have been checked.

Kampung Kemensah, close to Zoo Negara, is a popular camping and hiking area and offers activities such as picnic lunches by the stream.

The Selangor government had issued a directive that all camping and picnic sites in the state be closed for seven days from Dec 17.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi had also called on all campsites near hillsides or riversides to be temporarily vacated following uncertain weather conditions.

One operator in Kampung Kemensah said camping spots had been fully booked over the school holiday weekend.

“Some customers wanted a full refund, so we had no choice but to reimburse them.

“Others were willing to postpone their trip here, so hopefully we can reopen before school starts again,” said the operator who declined to be named.

He added that he had opted not to accept new bookings until the state lifted its restrictions.

Kajang Municipal Council (MPKj) president Najmuddin Jemain said the council had not issued any licences or permits for campsites as most campsites in Kajang and Hulu Langat were in forested areas, which fell under the purview of the Forestry Department.

“As for resorts and licensed homestays, we have advised them to follow the directive and share the information with their visitors.

“So far, they are complying and we have not received any reports stating otherwise,” he said when contacted.

In a public notice, MPKj advised visitors to postpone any outdoor activities in high-risk areas such as in hilly areas, by the beach and flood-prone areas.

“The people are also advised to always be vigilant and aware of warnings issued and obey the instructions of the authorities,” the statement said.

Tourism Selangor, in a social media post, said the Kanching Eco Forest Park in Rawang as well as Sungai Congkak Park and Resort in Hulu Langat were closed.

Several other local authorities have issued similar advice, including Subang Jaya City Council as well as the Selayang and Hulu Selangor municipal councils.

As of press time, 24 victims have been confirmed dead out of a total of 94 people involved in the landslide tragedy at the Father’s Organic Farm campsite in Gohtong Jaya on Jalan Genting-Batang Kali.

Sixty-one people survived while nine are still missing.