Residents displaced by a landslide at Damai Perdana Apartments in Bandar Damai Perdana, Cheras, Selangor, are urging authorities to conduct a swift investigation into the incident to facilitate their return home.

The landslide, which occurred on the evening of September 22, affected Block D of the four-block residential complex, prompting authorities to order the evacuation of approximately 80 residents from 45 units. A second group of about 120 residents from the same block was instructed to vacate their homes on the following day amid safety concerns.

Since the evacuation began on Tuesday, 52 individuals from 19 families have been accommodated at the Desa Baiduri Community Hall evacuation centre (PPS), while others have sought alternative arrangements. Residents at the PPS have expressed discomfort with the temporary shelter, citing limited facilities and a lack of amenities like fans in the pop-up tents.

“I understand the evacuation order is to protect our safety,” said 69-year-old resident Absah Abd Samat, who lives in Block D. She described feeling restless and isolated at the PPS compared to her home, where she typically cares for her grandchildren. Similarly, 49-year-old resident Norlaina Ayob highlighted the challenges of adapting to the temporary living conditions, noting the difficulty in setting up their own fans to alleviate the heat.

Authorities have indicated that the evacuation is precautionary, as the landslide may have compromised the structural integrity of the building. According to resident Mohd Faudzi Abdul Aziz, some units were not directly impacted by the landslide, but residents were nevertheless evacuated to ensure safety while technical assessments are conducted.

A comprehensive structural evaluation of the complex is ongoing, with a full technical report expected within the coming days. Multiple agencies are involved in the investigation, including the Public Works Department (JKR), Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID), Minerals and Geoscience Department, and the Kajang Municipal Council (MPKj).

The landslide is believed to have been triggered by an underground water leak, which has also disrupted the water supply across the four-block apartment complex. While water service has been restored to Blocks A and B, Block D remains without water, and restoration efforts for Block C are delayed due to the need to locate and repair damaged pipelines.

MPKj Zone 6 councillor Tan Kah Hoe confirmed that water supply to some blocks has been partially reinstated but acknowledged the ongoing challenges in fully restoring services to all affected areas.

Balakong assemblyman Ong Chun Wei emphasized the importance of expediting the investigation and ensuring that residents’ immediate needs are addressed. “We will continue monitoring the situation and coordinate with the relevant agencies to ensure affected residents’ immediate needs are taken care of,” he said.

Residents remain hopeful that the investigation will swiftly clarify the cause of the landslide and lead to the safe reopening of their homes.