The Consumers' Association of Penang is upset over the recent spate of deaths resulting from disregarding safety.

We have lost lives and limbs, as witnessed in the recent landslide in Hulu Langat that killed 16 persons and the latest accident at work place where two workers were crushed to death when the boom pole of a 50m-high crane collapsed on them at a construction site at Bukit Tunku in Kuala Lumpur.

These tragedies and work accidents could have been averted if only the parties responsible had taken heed to safety aspects.

Malaysia may have good laws and guidelines to ensure safety but what use are these if not enforced and implemented by the concerned parties.

After a tragedy happens, statements are issued by the authorities that more stringent measures will be taken, that checks and inquests will be made.

Promises and aid will pour in. Some of these would probably be carried out in the first few days or weeks. Then, after a while all is forgotten and we would hear of a similar tragedy in the near future.

Why the blatant disregard for health and safety? Why do the authorities turn a blind eye on illegal structures and hazardous work places?

Who is responsible when an untoward incident happens? Whom do we blame - nature, fate or negligence of those concerned?

One thing for sure - our questions and concerns will remain unanswered.

Don't we ever learn from past mistakes? The government will continue to approve hazardous projects such as the Lynas

Advanced Materials Plant in Gebeng and ignore pleas of the rakyat that our lives and health are more valuable than money.

Human lives should not be forced through sickness and suffering in the pursuit of growth and wealth. To ignore the warning signs despite all the evidence is to condemn ourselves and the environment.

We have choices that we can make towards a more sane and safe future. The issue is whether we want to and our pleas are heard and acted upon by those in power.

SM MOHAMED IDRIS is President Consumers Association of Penang