MBPP appoints termite control experts to inspect heritage buildings

The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) is set to appoint pest control companies specializing in termites, along with relevant consultants, to conduct comprehensive inspections of buildings, including heritage sites within the city. This initiative is a proactive step to prevent structural collapses caused by damage not visible from the exterior.

MBPP Mayor Datuk A. Rajendran stated that within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of George Town alone, there are 82 Category 1 heritage buildings and 3,771 Category 2 heritage buildings requiring continuous monitoring for safety and preservation. "So, we will appoint our own consultants to inspect identified high-risk buildings and also appoint pest control companies to inspect buildings at risk, including heritage buildings," he explained.

While the responsibility for appointing consultants typically falls on building owners, MBPP is prepared to cover the inspection costs in specific cases to safeguard public safety. This decision follows a recent incident last Tuesday where two Sri Lankan tourists were injured after being struck by falling stones and timber from the structure of a heritage building on Lebuh Armenian.

Rajendran added that inspections will commence in heritage areas before expanding to other buildings identified as needing urgent attention. If an inspection reveals a building is unsafe, MBPP will issue a notice to the owner for repairs. In more serious situations, the premises may be ordered to be vacated. He also noted that MBPP consistently issues notices to owners of buildings failing to maintain their properties, with 66 units currently identified as poorly maintained and 63 dilapidated premises requiring immediate attention due to safety risks.

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So, we will appoint our own consultants to inspect identified high-risk buildings and also appoint pest control companies to inspect buildings at risk, including heritage buildings