Batang Kali landslide: Operator only had licence for organic farm, not to host camping activities, says Nga

HULU SELANGOR: The campsite operator at Father's Organic Farm did not have a valid licence to host such activities, says Nga Kor Ming (pic).

The Local Government Development Minister said checks with the Hulu Selangor Municipal Council (MPHS) revealed the operator only had a licence to operate an organic farm.

"The operator filed an application to begin organic farming activities in 2019 but we believe they began operating the campsite in 2020," he told reporters at the scene on Friday (Dec 16).

He said stern action would be taken against the operator and any other operator found hosting such activities without valid licences.

"Those guilty could face a maximum of three years in jail or a RM50,000 fine.

"Those operating such activities without licences must cease operations immediately and apply for licensing first," he said, adding that 150 local authorities have received orders to clear out campsites for at least seven days.

He said this applies to campsites in high risk areas including those near rivers, hillslopes or water falls.

"The monsoon weather could go on for another five days and we do not want a repeat of this incident," he said.