By Jerry Choong
SHAH ALAM, Dec 23 — Tourism Selangor has cautioned domestic and foreign tourists in the state to take precautions while on their holidays, including avoiding high-risk areas during the ongoing northeast monsoon season.
It cited recent Selangor Drainage and Irrigation Department data which identified 87 flood hotspots throughout the state, with a focus on hilly places, jungles, or recreational spots.
"Those who are planning their vacations in such places should avoid these high-risk areas (for the time being)," Tourism Selangor said in a statement.
Of particular risks are rivers and waterfalls, as the agency said the Malaysian Meteorological Department has forecasted the northeast monsoon season, which began in mid-November, will last until March next year.
"Whenever a water surge happens, anything in its path will be quickly swept away. So, tourists will need to be cautious and exit the water as soon as leaves or dead wood flowing down the waterfall is sighted.
"Please note the public should take also care of the environment and dispose of trash in the proper receptacles, to prevent the obstruction of the river’s flow," it said.
[caption id="attachment_294882" align="aligncenter" width="1024"]
A waterfall at Sungai Tengkala, in the Hulu Langat district. — Picture by TOURISM SELANGOR[/caption]
Tourism Selangor also noted the bad weather caused by the monsoon season also poses a risk to hiking and picnicking activities.
"We advise the postponement of such activities, so as to mitigate the risks of getting lost in the jungle, falling in a landslide, or becoming trapped by rapidly rising water. In high-risk and sensitive areas, landslides and floods are also common hazards.
"Without adequate risk information and local knowledge, tourists could be exposed to future risks and cascading effects. Jungle and forest areas are a few of the locations that tourists plan to visit during the holidays, particularly for activities like hiking and camping where tracks could be slippery," it said.
To this, Tourism Selangor said it is crucial for parents and guardians to remind their children to stay away from trips that include these places.
"Most parents are planning special vacation trips for their kids during this time of the year to make the most of their school holidays. However, in the monsoon season, one should expect more rainfall that could lead to flash floods, storms and even landslides.
"With the recent landslide tragedy in Batang Kali at Hulu Selangor, it is important for both Malaysians and international tourists to remain vigilant during the monsoon season, and take precautions when planning their holidays," it said.
The landslide that struck the Father’s Organic Farm campsite in Gohtong Jaya at 2.42am last Friday (December 16), has so far claimed 30 lives, with 61 people rescued and one still missing.
