KUALA SELANGOR: A newly emerged sinkhole in the Cendana housing area of Puncak Bestari, Bandar Puncak Alam, has sparked safety concerns among residents.
The sinkhole, which appeared in Jalan Bestari 2/5 yesterday at around 11.30am, has created a dangerous gap between the residents' houses and the hole, measuring between 5 to 10 metres.
Residents have observed that a part of the drain wall had been broken for some time, which they claim is because of water movement in the soil.
The issue has raised fears of a potential landslide, especially during rainy conditions, reminiscent of the incident at Taman Wawasan, Puchong.
Addylly Faisal Ramli, 49, is among over 100 residents who have been dealing with safety issues in the neighbourhood since 2016.
"The issue of soil movement involving the slope in the back alley has yet to be resolved, and now a sinkhole has emerged near the houses.
"We seek the help of Housing and Local Department Minister Nga Kor Ming to come down and hear our grievances," he said.
Addylly said despite many reports to the authorities, particularly the Kuala Selangor Municipal Council (MPKS), the responses have been disappointing.
"Repairs have been done, but they were insufficient.
"The problem can become serious to the point of being considered a disaster, leading to loss of life and property damage. So, we want a concrete solution, not a temporary fix," he said.
Another resident, Muhammad Firdaus Redzuan, 44, said the situation has caused his family sleepless nights as they live near the newly formed sinkhole.
"I am frustrated to have bought a house worth hundreds of thousands of ringgit only to face safety issues that threaten my family's lives.
"The previous issue hasn't been resolved, and now there's a sinkhole. Please help us resolve this before it gets worse," he said.
Meanwhile, Noor Mariam Hashim, 47, demanded answers from the authorities on how the sinkhole could have formed, given the lack of vehicle parking spaces or extra lots in the area.
"This issue should be addressed immediately without compromise.
"Don't wait until it's too late to take action," said Noor Mariam, who has been living in the housing area for three years.
E-hailing driver Gusti Abdullah, 46, is worried about potential accidents, noting that most residents work outside and their families are home all day.
"This concerns our homes and lives, so authorities must take immediate action.
"Just visiting the site won't help. After the slope issue, now a sinkhole has emerged, and who knows what will happen next," he added.