Meeting with MPAJ

Wednesday 31st December 2008
5.15 pm :

Hi residents,

MPAJ meeting finished at 12 noon. I am very tired. Allow me some time to update you on issues being brought up. By the way developer did not turn up. Meeting was chaired by TYDP instead of YDP. WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH, THE TOUGH GETS GOING. Happy new year.

YENHEE
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Latest Update - 30th Dec (III)

Tuesday 30th December 2008
11.15 pm :

1. At 2.30 pm, Henri from Wangsa 7 and myself met up with MP Ampang YB Zuraidah and we requested for quick response to do up the slope.
2. At 3 pm - Informal discussion with YB Azmin officer to ask for feedback on the administration of RENTAL SUBSIDY, water and electricity to be put back and close monitoring of MPAJ.
3. At 4 pm - Attended JKR Brief, MP joined later and immediately secure appointment for us tomorrow to meet with YDP MPAJ, superview and JKR since superview is taking too long to act. Chee will post the minutes of the meeting.
4. At 8 pm - I visited our helpful chief of ops MPAJ at amp.put.hosp. due to exhaustion. He was sleeping at the site to ensure work goes on. PLEASE BE INFORMED THAT MEMORIAL SERVICE TO PAY RESPECT TO THE 5 DECEASED WILL BE HELD AT THE TRAGEDY SITE, Jalan Bukit Antarabangsa tomorrow, WEDNESDAY, 31st December 2008 at 8 pm. Wreath can be ordered through Raymond (012 - 236 6373)

YENHEE

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Latest Update - 30th Dec (II)

Tuesday 30th December 2008

2.30 pm :

Our local counsel, Encik Zudin told me that Hasrul, our chief operation MPAJ has been admitted. I would like everyone to chip in a couple of Ringgit for flowers. Thanks.

YENHEE

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Latest Update - 30th Dec (I)

Tuesday 30th December 2008

Good morning, residents.
Firstly on your behalf, I would like to express my appreciation to thank Chek YENG (no. 27) and Daniel HEE (no. 43) for sponsoring the light refreshment in venue Hillside Corner for our Wangsa 9 residents meeting on Sunday, 28th December 2008. Also to many fellow Wangsa nines who have extended their help and offers. Please keep this spirit alive and going till we are all back to our Wangsa 9 again!

Reminder: JKR Brief will be held today at 4 pm, JKR tent.

YENHEE

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Next JKR Brief

Friday 26th December 2008

Dear residents,

Please take note that the next JKR BRIEF will be taking place on next Tuesday (30th December 2008), 4 pm at JKR tent.

YENHEE
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Latest Update - 26th Dec

Friday 26th December 2008
8.58 am :

Morning, Hasrul. Can we consider again the option of putting metal sheets as platforms on 'clearing' trees in front of houses 15, 17 and 19? Many resident engineers feel that this approach is better and easier than getting the cars out through the emergency exit.

YENHEE
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Latest Update - 24th Dec

Wednesday 24th December 2008
2.25 pm :

1. JKR BRIEFING 4 pm. I had a confirmation from MPAJ at 2.20 pm that the briefing is on. Residents please attend to follow up with the progress. Our engineering should be coordinating them. Dato, Raymond and myself would not be able to attend. We sincerely apologise.
2. Jalan Wangsa 9 cars trapped - follow up with chief ops as on today, contractor had looked at the site and rule out that it can be done WITH some percentages of risk. Chief will have another meeting with YDP MPAJ this Friday to finalise this matter.
3. Residents please fill up your forms for rental relief fund. Vouchers from GIANT are ready for collection, those who need transporter and shifting, other entitlements - all register at MPAJ TENT disaster center by 6 pm.

YENHEE
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Latest Update - 22nd Dec

Monday 22nd December 2008

8.25 am :

Good morning residents. Hope everyone is waking up to a good day and can't wait to be registered! OK, I spoke to TYDP MPAJ this morning. All registration will be at MPAJ TENT at operation center (near surau). Fill in the yellow form for monthly RM 1,000. How payment be made there is no indication just yet. Remember senior citizens and family with disabled get extra RM 500 (for 3 months only), RM 120 vouchers for school-going children applies to the same yellow form. Those who have not shifted are eligible to apply for lorry and manpower for removing. All application will be verified. I would think it would be good if you can bring document to prove that you own the place like e.g. letter with Wangsa 9 address IF I.C. address does not indicate Wangsa 9. This will help to expedite your own application. Trust me!

Please take note the following agenda for Monday:

1. JKR Brief at 4 pm, JKR tent
2. Residents meet at 8 pm, Restaurant Wangsa UKAY (to tie up loose end)

9.15 am :

This morning I should be meeting up with MPAJ Chief Ops to look at solution to take trapped cars out. Please allow time.

Thanks.

NOTE: All letters collection for Jalan Wangsa 9 will be at Wangsa Ukay Restaurant from today. Message from Pos Malaysia.

YENHEE

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Kenyataan Media from Pejabat Menteri Besar Selangor

Click on the image for a clearer view. (page 1)
Click on the image for a clearer view. (page 2)
Click on the image for a clearer view. (page 3)


Click on the image for a clearer view. (page 4 * Bantuan Khas)

Click on the image for a clearer view. (page 5)

Click on the image for a clearer view. (page 6)

Good News

Sunday 21st December 2008

6.30 pm :
Dear residents,

Good news everyone. I have told Angie to relate to all that we have good news while I was in the Committee and Reps meeting with MB and ADUN. In general and specifically all affected residents of Jalan Wangsa 9 are to be compensated with RM 1,000 monthly until the day we can go back to our homes OR PKNS semi d (only 14 units available) in Balakong rental at RM 100 for the first 3 months and thereafter RM 500 until Wangsa 9 is ready.

Other fringe - families with disabled members and families with income less than RM 1,500 per month will get extra RM 500 (for 3 months only) and we are also entitled to RM 120 voucher (by GIANT) for bags, school uniforms and shoes for families with school-going children. All registration will be at MPAJ disaster center. More details will be confirmed in the residents meeting tonight. I HAVE YET TO POST THE PARTICULARS TO THE WEBSITE. SO PLEASE BE PATIENT.

YENHEE

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Letter to MB & ADUN

Date : 21st December 2008 (SUNDAY)
TO :
- YAB Tan Sri Abdul Khalid bin Ibrahim
Menteri Besar Selangor D.E.
- YB Encik Azmin Ali
ADUN Bukit Antarabangsa

YAB Tan Sri Khalid & YB En. Azmin,

Concerns by Evacuated Residents of BA
With reference to the Kenyataan Media Polis Diraja Malaysia on 20th December 2008, we, the representatives of the evacuated residents of Bukit Antarabangsa respectfully request that YAB Tan Sri Khalid and ADUN YB Encik Azmin Ali to look into concerns listed below:-

1. Can we assume that we can move back before or by the duration provided by the Kenyataan Media Polis Diraja Malaysia on 20th December 2008, for each of the six areas affected by the landslide so that we can plan our lives to move in no later than the respective dates given.

...1.1 Jln Bukit Antarabangsa

.........– House no. 6 to 21

.........(within ONE month)*
...1.2 Jln Bukit Mewah 2

.........– House no. 1 to 4, 12, 12A, 28, 29, 39, 40

.........(within ONE month)*
...1.3 Jln Wangsa 11

.........– House no. 78, 80, 82

.........(within ONE month)*
...1.4 Kondominium Impian Selatan

.........– Block B1

.........(within ONE month)*
...1.5 Jln BJ 6A, Tmn Bkt Jaya

.........– House no. 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16

.........(at least THREE months)*
...1.6 Jln Wangsa 9

.........– House no. 1 to 47

.........(at least THREE months)*

...1.7 Jln Bukit Mewah 1
.........– House no. 1 to 7
.........(unsafe)

...1.6 Jln Bkt Antarabangsa, Jln Bkt Mewah 1

.........& Jln Bkt Mewah 2
.........– Total 14 houses vanished

*From 1.1 to 1.4 : Residents can return home latest by or before 20th Jan. 2009
*From 1.5 to 1.6 : Residents can return home latest by or before?

If for any unfortunate situation, the deadlines cannot be met, what are the supports or aid that you are committed to offer us during that period of uncertainty?

2. How can we be assured that concentrated effort is being made to expedite the rectification work to alleviate prolonging our stay away from our homes?

3. Could you inform us what are the proactive measures that you have initiated to alleviate sufferings including but not limited to:

...3.1 Outstanding loan, waiver of interest and deferment of loan repayments
...3.2 Displacement and relocation cost effective 6th December 2008 until further notice

4. During these periods that we have vacated our homes, what measures will you implement to ensure the safety, security and integrity of our properties?

5. If these measures are taken, how can we be sure that they are ongoing during the entire period of our displacement? E.g. Wangsa 9 and Jalan BJ 6A, Taman Bukit Jaya, only authorized personnels and owners are allowed to go in.

6. We would like to request the state government to provide each evacuated resident a letter certifying the effective date of the evacuation as a direct consequence of the landslide that all services should be suspended effective 6th December 2008 until further notice.

7. We would like to have the assurance that the JKR communication center is in full operation on weekly if not daily basis to update the residents until every resident has been fully resettled.

8. Notwithstanding the fact that we would insist on having a copy of full report (meeting with the YAB on 14th December 2008 requested for the reports as on item no. 3) of this investigation, what are your remedial actions, rectification plans and preventive measures for the entire Bukit Antarabangsa to ensure the long term safety and livability of residents here?

We have been neglected long enough to the extent that this disaster had taken place, we now plead to your good office to put things right for all the residents of Bukit Antarabangsa.

We thank you.

The Action Committee
Bukit Antarabangsa Residents

Prepared & summarized by

YenHee & Tuan Syed Fadzil

Latest Update - 21st Dec

Sunday 21st December 2008

Dear residents,

Please take note the following agenda for Sunday:

1. Committee and Reps meeting MB and ADUN at 10 am, Briefing Center at SURAU (paper to be presented to MB is already posted to this blog)
2. JKR Brief at 4 pm, JKR tent
3. Residents meet at 8 pm, Restaurant Wangsa UKAY

YENHEE

Residents Meet (20th Dec)

All registered residents please take note:

There will be a residents' meeting tonight at 8:00pm at the Wangsa Restaurant to be briefed on the contents of the first official report on the landslide. A copy of the report was obtained by Dato Muniandy and Raymond J. at the press conference held this morning at Subang.

YENHEE

The above post was sent via e-mail

Latest Update - 19th Dec

Friday 19th December 2008

6.30 pm :

Dear residents,

Well.... We are trapped in between state and federal matters. MB was supposed to announce this morning but report was given to other ministry and not state. So MB did a press statement last night himself. Somehow, MB got the report at 1 pm today. MB will announce on Sunday definitely true. I was at JKR meeting just now mainly addressing the progress of work and matters to be attended. Some questions posted like how long to wait, although JKR told us to wait for announcement. About 5 pm+, Datuk told me that there would be a press conference. CPO will do the announcement at SUBANG HOLIDAY VILLA, 10:30 am, SATURDAY (tomorrow). You know that emergency cabinet meeting was called so I guess that's how they derive at tomorrow's press conference. So it looks like we will have to wait for the announcement to decide.

YENHEE
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Majority residents can return

Majority of BA residents can go home

(excerpt from the press)

Dec 19, 08 1:42 pm

The majority of residents in the landslide-hit area of Bukit Antarabangsa will be allowed to return to their houses.Revealing this today, Selangor Mentri Besar Khalid Ibrahim said the decision was based on the preliminary findings of the Public Works Institute of Malaysia and the Public Works Department (PWD) following the landslide tragedy on Dec 6, which killed four people and destroyed 14 houses.
According to the Star, the report was handed to Khalid about 12.45pm this afternoon. However, the menteri besar said he has yet to read the report in full, but clarified that most of the residents in the five affected areas would be able to return to their houses.
"The Gombak district officer and MPAJ president will now study the report in full. I will make an announcement on Sunday at the site of the landslide," he was quoted as saying.
Some 3,000 Bukit Antarabangsa residents had been waiting cautiously for the report as it would determine whether they would have to abandon their houses.Unsafe houses to be declared tomorrow Meanwhile, the Star also reported that the Gombak district officer and Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) president will go to the landslide site tomorrow to identify the houses which are unsafe.
Yesterday, Malaysiakini reported that PWD had decided not to submit its report to the state government.
Abdul Khalid had said that PWD had previously agreed to provide the report to the state government to allow him to make an announcement on the status of the housing areas.
"But PWD informed today that it will not be providing the report. This is puzzling and regrettable as it would make it difficult for the state to make a decision on behalf the victims," he said.
He said PWD's action in ignoring the state government would only be detrimental to the victims.
According to sources, the department did not provide a detailed explanation on its refusal apart from stating that "there were too many implications" if the report is handed to Abdul Khalid.

Postal Services

Dear residents,

Pos Malaysia will hold a briefing and services for evacuees at surau (disaster center) at 4 pm today. All mails for evacuated zones are now directed to Sekolah Kebangsaan HULU KELANG. Kindly note.

YENHEE

The above post was sent via SMS

Latest Update - 16th Dec

Tuesday 16th December 2008
11.35 am :
Several follow up calls were made pertaining to:

1. Cars trapped
2. Water and electricity
3. Rubbish collection

Feedback from chief ops – 1 and 2 depend on report Friday 19th December 2008.

3 pm :

1. Complaint to TYDP MPAJ on evacuated areas about rubbish collection which has yet to be attended.
2. Letters and change of address will be at Sekolah Kebangsaan Hulu Kelang. Pos Malaysia is giving away 5 free boxes per household.
   

4 pm :

1. Site inspection at Wangsa 9, MPAJ workers are cementing the drains.
   Rubbish collection was going on but job done was no good so I called TYDP MPAJ again before leaving the place.
2. Three policemen were seen to be guarding the emergency access to Wangsa 7. There was no policeman at the station booth at the emergency access for the last 2 days and it was brought up to my attention.
3. Residents are more than welcome to help to bring up whatever deem appropriate to respective authorities.

YENHEE

Residents Reps

Dear residents,

Please take note that the following is the list of representatives for residents in each respective areas in Bukit Antarasbangsa:

Bukit Mewah:

• Datuk Muniandy : 012 - 336 0674
• Raymond : 012 - 236 6373

Jalan Wangsa 9/11:

• YenHee : 012 375 2822 / yenhee08@gmail.com

Jalan Wangsa 7/5:

• Henry : 012 - 395 3923

Wangsa Heights:

• Tuan Syed Fadzil Al’Shahab : 019 386 1005 / syed@hits.com.my

Bukit Jaya:

• Encik Zahari : 013 - 368 0874
• Prem : 012 - 326 6275

Oakleaf:

• Affan : 019 - 263 7318
• David Soo : 019 - 229 0436

NOTE: Please refer to the upcoming residents meetings which will be posted on board at RESTAURANT WANGSA UKAY (Behind GIANT).

Official JKR Brief (15th Dec)

BRIEF NOTES OF JKR BRIEFING on Current Status of Civil Engineering Works to the Bukit Antarabangsa Landslide by Encik Kamar Kassim, Head of JKR Slope Engineering Unit

Date : Monday 15th Dec 2008

Venue : Bilik Gerakan JKR Gombak, Jalan Bkt Antarabangsa

_____________________________________________

In Attendance :-

En Kamar Kassim - Ketua JKR Slope Engineering Unit

En Ahmad Shuhaimi - JKR Slope Engineering Forensics Unit

En Hazrul - MPAJ Engineer

Dato' Muniandy - Bkt Antarabangsa Residents Committee

Ms Yen Hee - Bkt Antarabangsa Residents Committee

Mr S T Chee - Bkt antarabangsa Residents Committee

Residents - En Manaf

_____________________________________________

1. En Kamar briefed the meeting that he had obtained permission from the Minister of Works that owners of the 14 damaged bungalows including the adjoining 12 bungalows in Bukit Mewah will be allowed back into their homes to remove their belongings on the condition that they sign a Statutory Declaration (to absolve the Local Authorities of liability) as well as be accompanied by a Police Escort while they reenter their homes.
2. En Kamar reported that, as an interim remedial measure, they will be installing 2000 plus soil nailing points to secure the slope top on Jalan Wangsa to prevent further deterioration. This task will take at least a month.
3. Dato Muniandy and some residents (En Manaf and En Syed) requested that some very large trees on the slope behind the buildings located at no. 9, Jalan Bukit Antarabangsa be either pruned or cut with the debris to be carted away. En Hazrul of MPAJ said he will look into the matter and that work on that could start as early as the following day.
4. En Kamar reported that reinstatement work to reopen Jalan Bukit Antarabangsa commenced today. They will require 15 days to cut a 12 meter wide access through the landslide debris at the toe of the slope. A temporary gravity wall / rock buttress of boulders will be placed at the North side of the debris to stabilise the slope and to relieve hydrostatic pressure while works proceed to reopen the access road. After the rock buttress has been constructed, work to clear the building and slope debris in the disaster area can commence.
5. En Kamar said that they have requested MPAJ to chair a meeting with residents to prepare a "Witness Account" record to help the JKR Forensics Team to trace the events leading up to the slope failure and identify the probable cause of failure.

by

S T CHEE

16 Dec 2008

Residents Meet (15th Dec)

Residents met on Monday 15th December at 12 noon REST WANGSA with Department of Prime Minister (Jabatan Perdana Menteri) Biro Pengaduan Dato Senator Murugaih. For your information, meeting with Menteri Besar Selangor, Tan Sri Dato’ Abdul Khalid Ibrahim, was a cordial one. The paper submitted to Tan Sri Dato’ Abdul Khalid will soon be posted on my blog. Actual minutes of the meeting will also be posted as soon as possible. All in all, we will all be briefed based on report by JKR on 19th Dec 2008 (Friday).

Please try to support by attending tomorrow's meeting. If you think you are busy, my house is abandoned and I am abandoning my kids since the day of the evacuation trying to get things going for "Save Bukit Antarabangsa". By the way, Captain Hassan had a heart attack and he is now in Institut Jantung Negara. He is currently conscious. Thank god.

YENHEE

The above post was sent via SMS

JKR Brief (15th Dec 2008)

The following is the brief from JKR (Public Works Department) held at 4pm on 15th December 2008 (Monday):

1. Owners of bungalows in Bukit Mewah need to sign a statutory agreement & with police escort to recover and take belongings (has been implemented)
2. Jalan Wangsa 9, interim remedial will be submitted to the cabinet for approval this Friday. If it is approved, work will take 4 to 6 weeks. By then vehicles can access the area but residents are not allowed to be back as yet.
3. The tree behind house no. 9, Jalan Bukit Antarabangsa deemed endangering the slope will be pruned immediately by MPAJ tomorrow morning.
4. Main concentration now is to reinstate the road Jalan Antarabangsa which will take 15 days. Stone filling alongside the road will be put as temporary measure.
5. Residents of Laman Oakleaf would like authority to look into a stream which is fading away a few days back.
6. Next JKR residents brief will be on Wednesday, 17th December 2008, 10 am at JKR tent.

YENHEE
The above post was sent via SMS

Cc. Dato M, Syed, Henry, Dori, Raymond

Letter to MB Tan Sri Khalid

Date : 14th December 2008

TO :

YAB Tan Sri Abdul Khalid bin Ibrahim
Menteri Besar Selangor D.E.

YAB Tan Sri,

Issues of Concern by Residents of Bukit Antarabangsa Resultant from the Recent Landslide
We, the representatives of the residents of Bukit Antarabangsa, after several meetings with the residents, wish to bring to your attention the following issues :-

Points for discussion:

1. SEEKING IMMEDIATE SOLUTIONS :

• The missing maid of Mr. Thana and the late Dr. Yoges
• It is not 14 houses that are affected but it is in fact 24 houses
• A need to survey and inspect all properties and its surroundings. E.g. the main drain (beside the main road which are showing new cracks)
• Jalan Wangsa 9: when can the road be reopened

2. COMPENSATION :

• We want to echo MB’s statement.

3. REPORTS & FINDINGS :

• We insist these be made available to the committee and thereafter to the public. E.g.:
• - JKR Report
• - IKRAM Bhd Report
• - Jabatan Mineral and Geoscience Report

4. ASSISTANCE ;

• In the event a need to remove / demolish properties, the owner or his appointed representative is present (non-negotiable).
  
• Basic needs – reestablishing of water supply
  
• Support and financial assistance to the families of those who perished in the disaster
  
• Appointing our committee member be part of your investigation committee
  

5. VOICES FROM THE RESIDENTS

• We have 12 categories of major concerns which need to be addressed immediately

• The committee is continuing to collect and collate feedback from the residents

FROM :
The Action Committee Bukit Antarabangsa Residents

Residents Meet (14th Dec)

Residents, meeting tomorrow (14th December 2008) Sunday at 10 am, BURGER KING. Please document:-

1. Your complaints and grievances. (Eg.: Reported a crack & no action taken, recent cracks, cracks, etc.)
2. What do you want authorities to do for you, your taman, etc.

Documentations in black and white are most important. All these will help us in filing for evidence and also sorting out actions to be taken to rectify damages and put forward to relevant authorities. Please put down your name, address and contact number. Feel free to write. For your information, our regular meetings and follow-ups have contributed tremendously into actions taken.

Thank you.

YENHEE
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JKR still working

Dear residents,
It is Saturday, 13th Dec, 8.30 am and I am now inspecting the site of Jalan Wangsa 9. All sumps have been concreted. JKR is still working on tarpaulins.

YENHEE
The above post was sent via SMS

Residents Meet (13th Dec)

Dear residents,
There was a residents meeting with Minister of Works, YB Azmin Ali and head of uuthorities on the morning of 13th December 2008 (Saturday) . Brief notes from the meeting are as follow:

1. Before we could get down with the issues, the Minister of Work walked out on us.
2. YB Azmin went to site with us to identify the sumps and had been immediatedly addressed. Huat Lim confirmed that there are in total 8 sumps 4 lines to be concreted today.
3. Tarpaulins are in process since this morning and still working on. I left the site (Jalan Wangsa 9) at 3 pm.
4. YB will look into getting ten cars that are trapped belonging to houses number 47, 43, 41, 39, 37 and 31, Jalan Wangsa 9. Please stand by.
5. Rubbish collection on all affected areas to be addressed.

Kindly note that Sunday's meeting with MB will only be with representatives and committee members. I would like to thank you for your support.

YENHEE
The above post was sent via SMS

Appeal Letter to MPAJ

Since there has been a lack of information being disseminated by IKRAM & JKR, I have organised a briefing from time to time within my community to update all information that I can get hold of. We feel that independent sources are required to advise us on our situations. Below is an appeal letter sent by hand to MPAJ. A meeting was secured for residents to meet TYDP MPAJ, En. Abdul Hamid (YDP was not able to attend) at Jalan Wangsa 9, 10 am Friday 12th December 2008.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
JALAN WANGSA 9 RESIDENTS COMMITTEE
_____________________________________________

Our Ref.: Wgsa9-MPAJ/01
Date : 11th December 2008

Dato' Mohamad Yaacob
Yang Di-Pertua
Majlis Perbandaran Ampang Jaya

Yang Mulia Dato'

An Appeal From Residents of Jalan Wangsa 9, Taman Wangsa Ukay, Bukit Antarabangsa, Ulu Kelang, Selangor Darul Ehsan

We, the undersigned, as residents of the houses on Jalan Wangsa 9 respectfully request that Dato', as the Yang DiPertua of Majlis Perbandaran Ampang Jaya, use your good office to look into several issues which we feel require to be acted upon immediately in respect of the current landslide problem resulting in all of us being ordered to leave our homes on Jalan Wangsa 9.

We have, on Thursday 11th December 2008, had a meeting with some independent Civil Engineering Consultants led by Ir. Dr Ooi Teck Aun (Geo Technical Engineer), Ir. Dr Tan Yean Guan (Geo Technical Engineer), Mr. Tan Boon Kong (Geologist) and Ir. Peter T T Chiam (Past President Institution Engineers Malaysia) to discuss the immediate measures that need to be taken to safeguard our properties by addressing the following issues: -

1. Arrest further deterioration of Jalan Wangsa 9, Wangsa Ukay - and consequently the 2 blocks of houses at the top of the slope failure - to safeguard our interests.

2. To stabilise the failed slope so that there are no further failures or the failure does not widen.

Being residents in the area, we may be able to offer our assistance to the technical personnel who are currently investigating the disaster. Some residents have identified that some roadside drain sumps on Jalan Wangsa 5 and 9 which drain into Jalan Wangsa 9 have failed resulting in further water draining into the slope, thereby further aggravating the problem. These sumps will need to be repaired immediately to prevent further water ingress into the subsoil strata and hence the failed slope.

Based on visual evidence, there is very clear evidence of excessive water on the failed slope (evidence of primary cause of failure). This has to be drained immediately so that the slope can be stabilised as soon as possible for the subsequent work to commence.

In view of the continued wet weather, tarpaulins will need to be placed at the top of the slopes to prevent further surface water seepage into the slope causing further instability and danger to both lives and property.

We believe that immediate action can be taken on the items mentioned above to control the damage while a longer term plan can be put in place to solve the problem on a long term basis. We also believe that these short term measures will not affect the overall long term plan and studies that are being studied and formulated to address the current hardship and threat to our properties on Jalan Wangsa 9.

In addition to the above, we would like to appeal that a formal channel of communication be opened between us and YDP's representatives so that we do not rely on unsubstantiated rumours for current information on the status of the situation. This channel of communication will help keep us informed of the progress of the immediate, mid-term and long term plans so that we can also make plans with respect to looking for alternative accommodation and moving our valuables out of our houses, some of which have been lived in for well excess of 20 years.

We appeal to your good office to consider our request to put into immediately some of the suggestions to arrest further deterioration of the instability of the slope thereby threatening our properties as well as appointing a liaison officer to keep us, the affected residents, informed of what is being done to solve the dilemma that we are currently facing.

Thank you very much for your attention and favourable consideration of our plight.

Yours faithfully,

SIGNED - RESIDENTS OF JALAN WANGSA 9 (enclosed)

c.c. ADUN Bukit Antarabangsa YB Encik Azmin Ali

Enc.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Immediate actions to be taken, close monitoring & follow ups:

1. Sumps will need to be repaired immediately to prevent further water ingress into the subsoil strata and hence the failed slope.
2. The excessive water on the failed slope has to be drained immediately so that the slope can be stabilised as soon as possible for the subsequent work to commence.
3. Tarpaulins will need to be placed at the top of the slopes to prevent further surface water seepage into the slope causing further instability and danger to both lives and property which we are very surprised that such prevention has not been attended to. Only small portion was covered.
4. A formal channel of communication be opened between us and YDP's representatives so that we do not rely on unsubstantiated rumours for current information on the status of the situation.

NOTE: All residents, please note that I do not have internet accessibility (evacuated) so as much as I would like to disseminate more information, I am rather held up. I shall try to put as much minutes of meeting to my blog.

Ong Ka Chuan's Comment

RTM 1 Midnight News: 12th December 2008 – Parliamentary debate. Lim Kit Siang quoted what Ong Ka Chuan said is equivalent to second Samy Velu. Out of the 4 days since the disaster, he was not seen (only yesterday at the site) came out to give such comment that this is “an act of god”. This is because Ong Ka Chuan has said that “there is no clear evidence of the landslide is man made”. Not only this, he also said that MPAJ has informed him that there has no recent development been going on in Bukit Antarabangsa. Then again, Lim Kit Siang debated that even without the presence of new development, it doesn’t mean that the disaster is not man made.

What I have to say is, the “latest development” that I am aware of or rather the whole residents of Bukit Antarabangsa know is the Siarah Oak Leaf comprising of semi bungalows, sitting on a 30° to 45° slopes (stand to be corrected). On the very same side of the hill where Wangsa 9 is. Such naive statement is a disgrace to the nation when lives have been swept and we have a minister who can just make such sweeping statement. For the last many days since the occurrence of the landslide, we have heard many versions of stories and political debates. What we have not heard is a single word just yet the immediate remedial measures to be taken. We have to stand united to be heard. We are the residents, we live here and we know that the cause of the landslide is purely the negligence of maintenance.

Meeting with MPAJ

BRIEF NOTES OF MEETING BETWEEN MPAJ & BA LANDSLIDE ACTION COMMITTEE

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Present :

Representing Majlis Perbandaran Ampang Jaya (MPAJ):

- Encik Abdul Hamid Bin Hussain, Timbalan Yang Di Pertua
- Puan Hajjah Norhayati Binti Ahmad, Pegawai Penerangan

Members of BA Landslide Action Committee (the Committee):

- Y. Bhg. Datuk M. Muneandy (Committee Chairman)

- representatives of residents of various roads of Wangsa Ukay

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The meeting was called to seek the responses of MPAJ to various issues raised by the residents of Bukit Antarabangsa, in particular the residents of Jalan Wangsa 9, Wangsa Ukay where the landslide started on 6th December, 2008. The issues raised were the result of the feedback obtained from residents at the 1st Meeting of the Committee held on 10th December, 2008.

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ISSUE NO. 1 :

Since the occurrence of the Landslide on the 6th December 2008, have there been any steps taken to ascertain the cause or causes of the Landslides i.e. Geotechnical Studies?

Response from MPAJ
The Authorities require 10 days for the geotechnical studies to be completed before any announcement or proposed action could be taken to address the condition of the various locations affected by the landslide.

The Police has directed residents living in 5 areas designated as critical or “red areas” as identified by Jabatan Kerja Raya (JKR), such Jalan Wangsa 9, Taman Bukit Mewah and Impian Selatan Condominium, to evacuate for safety reasons.

MPAJ would bring to the attention of JKR, which is leading the geotechnical studies, the request of the residents.

MPAJ is not in the position or has no authority to address some of the issues as the Task Force Committee is led by the Selangor Chief Police Officer. However, MPAJ will bring up the matter with the relevant authority.

Request of the Committee/Residents
The residents be represented by being included in the Task Force Committee set up by the Authorities so that the residents are kept properly informed of the situation as presently there is a lack of correct information communicated to the residents. The residents are now getting information from the printed media, TV or radio and some of the information seem to be conflicting or inaccurate.

The concern of the residents is that, no information has been disseminated and this causes a lot of anxiety and uncertainty.

The residents requested that they be privy to the progress of the geotechnical studies.

COMMENTS: Residents realise that 10 days is far too long. Immediate measure should be looked into.

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ISSUE NO. 2 :

What measures have the Authorities taken to safeguard the Area and the Safety of the occupants?

Response of MPAJ
The Police has given the assurance that the properties and belongings of the affected residents would be protected.

COMMENTS: Constant checks show that certain times there was no police at all. As a result, our properties are exposed to strangers which will also lead to looting and vandalising. Even with the presence of the police, strangers are allowed to sight-seeing the place. This has caused tremendous traffic jam, unnecessary chaos and worst of all, the weight of unnecessary vehicles moving in and out can further jeopardise the situation.

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ISSUE NO. 3 :

How long is it expected before the residents can safely return to their homes?

Response of MPAJ
The affected residents have to wait for the geotechnical studies to be completed before the Authorities can make any announcement or decision on the matter.

The Police would be notified.

Request of the Committee/Residents
The residents raised the issue of compensation for the affected residents and whether the Authorities would consider the matter.

(It was reported in the newspapers that the Prime Minister had said that the Government is considering compensation for the victims of the landslide)

The residents also raised the matter that compensation should be considered before residents are directed to evacuate.

COMMENT: As on 9th December 2008, it was announced in TV3 (only) 8pm news that the government is not paying compensation to victims of landslide. The Minister of Housing, Ong Kah Chuen said that there is no evidence that the disaster is man-made.

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ISSUE NO. 4 :

What steps have been taken to address the drainage situation at Wangsa 9, which has been neglected for years?

Response of MPAJ
The concerns and request of the residents would be addressed following the geotechnical studies.

Request of the Committee / Residents
The residents requested that proper action be taken to address the poor drainage situation, especially in Jalan Wangsa 9 and its vicinity and the row of abandoned houses along Jalan Wangsa 9 and 11.

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ISSUE NO. 5:

Since we have been evacuated from our homes, can the authorities ensure that our belongings / properties are safe and not subjected to looting? In the event of any losses, will the relevant authorities be responsible for them?

Response of MPAJ
This issue is addressed by the Police and MPAJ will bring the issue to the attention of the Police.

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ISSUE NO.6:

When can the Wangsa 9 road be made safe and accessible again?

ISSUE NO. 7:

What steps have been taken to render the trees is safe to the residents of Wangsa 9 and Bukit Antarabangsa?

ISSUE NO. 8:

What are the immediate shot term and long term plans? This should not be restricted to Wangsa9 but the entire Bukit Antarabangsa Area?

Response of MPAJ
These issues can only be addressed after the geotechnical studies are completed and deliberated by the Authorities.

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OTHER MATTERS
Request by the Committee/Residents

The affected residents of Jalan Wangsa 9 requested that MPAJ provide the necessary machinery and assistance to enable these residents to take out their motor vehicles and other belongings as there is a fallen tree across the road preventing access.

The Committee requested that MPAJ designate one of its personnel to be the liaison officer for the Committee to liaise and communicate with. The Committee has nominated Mdm. Yen Hee to be the liaison person representing the Committee to liaise with MPAJ.

The Committee also requested that MPAJ organise a meeting for the Committee to meet with the Heads of the various government agencies and departments involved with the Bukit Antarabangsa landslide.

Response of MPAJ
MPAJ will assist the affected residents to remove their motor vehicles and belongings.

COMMENT: In what ways and how?

MPAJ will nominate Puan Hajjah Norhayati Binti Ahmad as the liaison officer.

MPAJ will take up the request of the Committee.

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Landslide - 6th Dec 2008

We are all very saddened by the landslide that took place on the 6th December 2008. On behalf of all residents of Wangsa 9, Bukit Antarabangsa, we would like to express our sincere condolences to victims who were directly or indirectly affected by the tragedy. The rescue operations have done what they have to do but it is very sad that no authorities have taken immediate attention to realize where it comes from. We, the residents of Wangsa 9, are in dire straits as certain part of Wangsa 9 has been caved in. Authorities should come up with remedial measures to prevent the slopes from further erosion. A lot of attention has been channeled to Bukit Mewah where the cause of the landslide has been overlooked. In fact, if Wangsa 9 is not immediately attended to, it will cause a more catastrophic effect to the whole of Bukit Antarabangsa. Realising this, Wangsa 9 residents would like the following queries to be addressed immediately. Please continue reading on questions posted in the meeting with TYDP of MPAJ. A request in black and white and signed by all residents was submitted to MPAJ after the discussion.

BUKIT ANTARABANGSA LANDSLIDE ACTION COMMITTEE

RE: LANDSLIDE AT WANGSA UKAY, BA

The residents of Jalan Wangsa 9, would like the following queries to be addressed immediately by the relevant Authorities.

1. Since the occurrence of the Landslide on the 6th December 2008, have there been any steps taken to ascertain the cause or causes of the Landslides i.e. Geotechnical Studies?

2. What measures have the Authorities taken to safeguard the Area and the Safety of the occupants?

3. How long is it expected before the residents can safely return to their homes?

4. What steps have been taken to address the drainage situation at Wangsa 9, which has been neglected for years?

5. Since we have been evacuated from our homes, can the authorities ensure that our belongings / properties are safe and not subjected to looting? In the event of any losses, will the relevant authorities be responsible for them?

6. When can the Wangsa 9 road be made safe and accessible again?

7. What steps have been taken to render the trees is safe to the residents of Wangsa 9 and Bukit Antarabangsa?

8. What are the immediate shot term and long term plans? This should not be restricted to Wangsa 9 but the entire Bukit Antarabangsa Area?