Check safety of heritage and old buildings, avoid repeated collapse incidents

Owners of heritage and old buildings in Penang are urged to conduct regular safety inspections, especially those in high-traffic areas. This reminder follows a recent incident where stones and wood from a building beam collapsed, injuring two Sri Lankan tourists.

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I have asked George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI) and the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) to issue advice to building owners to take steps to conduct structural inspections to prevent similar incidents from recurring.

"I have asked George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI) and the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) to issue advice to building owners to take steps to conduct structural inspections to prevent similar incidents from recurring," said Wong Hon Wai, Chairman of the State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee. "If possible, all heritage and old buildings must be ensured to be safe as they can pose a risk to pedestrians and visitors."

The incident occurred around 1:11 p.m. The injured tourists, Mohamad Ammtar, 66, and Fatimah, 55, received initial treatment from health workers at the scene before being sent to Penang Hospital for further care. Wong stated that the state government will provide appropriate assistance to the two tourists and is coordinating with the Sri Lankan High Commission in Kuala Lumpur to arrange necessary support.

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If possible, all heritage and old buildings must be ensured to be safe as they can pose a risk to pedestrians and visitors.

"The state government takes this incident seriously because it not only caused injuries to tourists but also involved safety issues in heritage areas that are major attractions for visitors," he added. In a separate development, Wong announced the "Fall In Love With Penang" domestic tourism campaign, a new initiative focusing on local tourism while continuing efforts to attract international visitors. He noted that Penang's previous promotion strategies largely targeted overseas markets like China, Southeast Asia, and India, but the changing global tourism landscape necessitates a more balanced approach.

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The state government takes this incident seriously because it not only caused injuries to tourists but also involved safety issues in heritage areas that are major attractions for visitors.

"Therefore, for the first time, we are launching a campaign like this because we want locals to rediscover Penang's unique attractions beyond its diverse food and heritage," Wong said.

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Therefore, for the first time, we are launching a campaign like this because we want locals to rediscover Penang's unique attractions beyond its diverse food and heritage.