Department still probing potential landslide site in Kundasang

RANAU: Department of Minerals and Geoscience Malaysia (JMG) Sabah Director Dr Frederick Francis Tating said investigation into a potential landslide at a hilly site in Kg Lembah Permai Kundasang is still ongoing.

He said Thursday’s investigation by JMG at the site was incomplete and the investigation continued on Friday.

“Preliminary findings show there is a creeping-type landslide with an estimated length of approximately 250 metres and a width of 75 metres,” he said.

Dr Frederick said the causative factors are related to geological materials and structures, landforms, the presence of ground and surface water and also activities on the slopes.

An aerial estimation of the site where signs of soil deposits were detected.

“As a matter of fact, Kundasang has generally been known for a long time as an area prone to landslides.

“The site is included in the Kundasang Landslide Complex area and the current heavy rains have accelerated the rate of this landslide,” he said.

Earlier, residents in the area were advised to be cautious for any untoward risks following soil deposit occurrences involving a huge section there on Thursday.

Ranau Fire and Rescue Station Chief Ridwan Mohd Taib said it involved a section of a hillside in the well-known tourist area in the village.

He said from a dialogue with the residents, the area measuring about 150X700 metres involves houses, vegetable gardens as well as lodging and homestay.

“We found soil deposits in the area of the caller’s house and we have advised residents to move out if the situation worsens, and the case has been handed over to JKR for follow-up action,” he said.

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