KUALA LUMPUR: The investigation into the incident involving Indian tourist G. Vijaya Lakshmi, who fell into a sinkhole on Jalan Masjid India on Aug 23, is nearing completion.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa said that the full investigation results were currently under review by several agencies, including the incident commander, the OCPD of Dang Wangi, the Federal Territories Department, and Kuala Lumpur City Hall.
"The geotechnical assessment is also ongoing, utilising technologies such as ground-penetrating radar and microgravity testing to ensure soil stability in high-risk areas, including the central business district of Kuala Lumpur. This assessment is crucial for identifying locations that may still be susceptible to future sinkholes
"Both reports will be presented to the cabinet first," she said in response to P. Prabakaran (PH-Batu), who asked for an update on the sinkhole incident at Jalan Masjid India.
Prabakaran also inquired whether the government is prepared to release the reports to the public.
Dr Zaliha assured that the government was committed to transparency in all investigations, particularly those involving public safety.
Regarding compensation for the family of the late Vijaya Lakshmi, she said, "The government, through City Hall, has contributed RM30,000 to assist the victim's family in alleviating their burden from this tragedy, along with an additional RM10,000 from private donors.
"Moreover, the government does not discourage the victim's family from pursuing claims through legal channels against the relevant agencies. I urge members of the Dewan Rakyat not to view the RM30,000 contribution from City Hall as the sole measure of the victim's life."
She also said that the government had mobilised personnel and resources to the site during the incident.
"Throughout the nine days of search operations, substantial funds were utilised for daily operational costs. It's important to acknowledge the risks faced by personnel who entered narrow and hazardous areas. All these efforts and sacrifices underscore the Malaysian government's serious approach to incidents affecting both locals and foreign tourists."
The authorities officially called off the search and rescue operation for Vijaya Lakshmi on Aug 31.
She had gone missing after falling into an eight-metre deep sinkhole while en route to a nearby temple.