Penang will conduct an assessment of the structural safety of all heritage buildings across the state following yesterday’s incident where debris from a heritage shophouse along Armenian Street fell, injuring two tourists.

State local government and town and country planning committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye said the state government would discuss with the National Heritage Department the appointment of an independent engineer to conduct a study and identify heritage buildings deemed unsafe or at risk.

“Once the study is completed, the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) may issue notices to owners of the identified buildings (requiring them) to undertake the necessary restoration works,” he told Bernama on Wednesday (Aug 5).

In the incident, two Sri Lankan tourists were injured after a wooden beam and concrete debris fell from a heritage building along Armenian Street, with preliminary inspections indicating that the collapse was caused by termite damage.

The victims, Mohamad Ammtar, 66, and Fatimah, 55, were given initial treatment at the scene before being taken to the Penang Hospital (HPP) for further treatment.

H’ng stressed that efforts to preserve the heritage value of buildings must not compromise public safety.

He said that although conservation works must retain the original features and structures of heritage buildings, alternative materials that are more durable and safe should be considered when the original materials, such as wood, are no longer suitable.

Regarding the victims’ condition, H’ng said he was informed that the male victim was discharged from HPP on Wednesday after receiving treatment.

However, he said Mohamad Ammtar’s wife was still receiving treatment and would undergo a computerised tomography (CT) scan to assess the extent of her injuries.

On Tuesday, state tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI) and MBPP had been asked to issue advisories to owners of heritage buildings across the state.

He said the incident underscored the need to ensure the structural safety of old and heritage buildings to prevent similar occurrences.

Source: Bernama

(Picture: NST Online)

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