The Selayang Municipal Council (MPS) in Malaysia has identified nine camping grounds operating without proper registration, while only two out of the 11 campsites under MPS jurisdiction have obtained the necessary permits and business licenses.
Following the recent Batang Kali landslide tragedy that claimed 31 lives and injured seven, the Selangor state government has enforced new guidelines requiring all campsite operators to register with their respective local authorities starting February 1.
The deadline for registration was last April 1 with some operators still having the option to register by April 3.
MPS Deputy President Adi Faizal Ahmad Tarmizi announced the council’s findings during their third monthly meeting yesterday.
While some operators have already registered, the council is still waiting for responses from the remaining nine.
Adi Faizal hopes that all campsite operators will comply with the registration requirement and implement the rules set by the state government to ensure visitor safety.
Adi Faizal emphasized that registration alone is not enough to guarantee safety. Operators must also ensure that their camping grounds meet certain safety requirements, such as having a secure and suitable location with proper access for emergency response teams.
The council will conduct thorough inspections to ensure that all campgrounds meet these requirements.
The recent tragedy at Father’s Organic Farm in Batang Kali, where landslides caused multiple fatalities and injuries, highlights the need for increased safety measures and regulations for private campgrounds.
In response, the Selangor state government has enforced new guidelines, with the aim of protecting the lives of visitors.
Private campground owners and operators in Selangor must comply with these guidelines and obtain the necessary permits and licenses to ensure their visitors’ safety. Failure to do so can result in fines, closure, or even criminal charges.
The registration requirement allows local authorities to better monitor the safety standards of these facilities, ensuring they meet necessary regulations.
While some private campground owners and operators may view these guidelines and regulations as burdensome, they are essential for visitor safety.
The recent tragedy highlights the potential dangers associated with camping and the need for appropriate safety measures to protect visitors.
Private campground owners and operators must prioritize visitor safety and take the necessary steps to ensure compliance with state regulations.