Paya Terubong resident questions development approval after fatal landslide

GEORGE TOWN: A resident living near the Taman Seri Rambai landslide site heard a loud rumbling sound at 2am while he was sleeping.

Lim, in his 30s, said the noise sounded like rocks collapsing, prompting him to go outside to check.

"I was sleeping when I heard a loud sound, like rocks falling," he said when met.

Lim, who has lived in the area with his parents for more than 30 years, said he had long been concerned about landslide risks, particularly during heavy rain.

He said a previous landslide had occurred about 10 years ago behind a small temple in the area, after which repairs were carried out.

However, he said mud frequently spilled onto the road during heavy downpours, with workers called in to clear the affected stretch.

"The only action the developers take is to call workers to clean up the road. That's all," he said.

Lim said he had lodged complaints about his concerns but felt that action was unlikely unless an incident occurred.

He also questioned the approval of a proposed 47-storey development in the area, claiming that residents had opposed the project but it had proceeded.

He said residents were worried about the potential risks, especially during periods of heavy rainfall.

Lim added that the area's history of landslides made him question how the development had obtained approval.

It was reported that a man was killed after a landslide struck the rear of a house in Taman Seri Rambai, Paya Terubong, this morning.

Penang Fire and Rescue Department assistant operations director John Sagun Francis said the department received an emergency call at 8.36am.