GEORGE TOWN – The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has issued three notices to a social amenities operator atop a hiking trail at Bukit Gambir, as the structures were erected illegally.
Enforcement officers have dismantled the structures, which comprise a tent, canopy, and a makeshift toilet, which the landowner had apparently set up for hikers to rest at during their hike up the hill.
In a statement issued by MBPP’s management services, the council had conducted a spot check in the area on January 25 where they discovered the presence of the illegal facilities.
Notices were served on January 27, February 8 and March 15, but the operators and the landowner refused to budge.
On April 9, the enforcement division was forced to act under Section 97 of the council’s roads, drainage and building bylaws code 1974.
The council clarified that the action was taken on safety and security grounds, and not to burden hikers, as the structures were constructed illegally and could pose a danger to those using it.
It said the action was also taken to prevent any illegal land clearing from occurring as it would endanger the ecosystem.
“We do not wish to see illegal development on our hillslopes due to the threat of erosion.”
The council’s action was heavily criticised on social media by civil society groups and hikers, where they questioned why other structures could operate and the one at Bukit Gambir could not.
Some also lambasted the high-handedness of the council’s officers.
A group of hikers staged a protest, which was posted on social media.
State executive councillor Jagdeep Singh Deo, who oversees the local government portfolio, could not be reached for comment on this matter. – The Vibes, April 10, 2021
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