THE Jalan Bukit Kukus landslide, which claimed nine lives on Oct 19, 2018, was once again brought up at the Penang State Legislative Assembly – this time over the fine of RM35,000 each imposed on the project director of the Paya Terubong paired road project and the construction company.
Lee Khai Loon (PH – Machang Bubuk) said he was shocked that the project director and the construction company were each fined RM35,000 for an amended charge of failing to provide safe working procedures on Feb 19 this year.
He then asked state Housing, Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jagdeep Singh for his reaction on the amount of fine.
“Even as an exco member, if it is not right, then I will say so. It’s very unfair that nine lives were lost at a cost of RM70,000 and if you do the calculation, one life is worth less than RM10,000.
“So, we must take action at state and national levels – to amend the law or replace it. And I’m sure we’ll see something positive happening,” Jagdeep (PH – Datok Keramat) replied.
The charge, under Section 15 (1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994, carries a fine of up to RM50,000 or imprisonment of up to two years or both, upon conviction.
Earlier, Jagdeep had told Joseph Ng Soon Siang (PH – Air Itam) that the Penang government, through the Penang Island City Council, had taken some steps to prevent such accidents from recurring.
He said one of the most important measures was that the main contractor has to hire independent checkers to monitor, supervise and take appropriate action for the safety of the public, public property and environment.
The main contractor, Jagdeep added, was also required to appoint certified consulting engineers for them to supervise and prepare construction plans for temporary earthworks at the site.
He also said all natural waterways at the site must be studied, maintained and channelled without affecting existing flows.
Jagdeep said the paired road project, which connects Paya Terubong and Relau, is expected to be completed and open for public use in May 2021.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Chan Kok Kuan