I write to register my objection in the strongest terms to the proposal and plans to develop the hillslopes at Ukay Heights in Selangor - specifically Lots 1680, 1681, 530 & 531 (Mukim Hulu Kelang).

As a long-term resident of Taman Hillview (which borders Taman Hijau, Taman TAR, Dataran Seri Ukay, Bkt Antarabangsa and the broader Ampang Jaya area), we have experienced at close quarters the catastrophic devastation of Highland Towers hillside and building collapse, the numerous house collapses and multiple deaths not to mention the loss of property and other colossal economic losses, and the resultant stress and suffering of the victims.

It amazes me that in spite of geologists and soil specialists reports - and the Public Works Department Research and Training Institute's (Ikram) and the Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) consultant's own findings and recommendations - that find these hill formations to be unstable, MPAJ in its convoluted wisdom is still considering highrise building development for these steep hillslopes!

I am an agriculturist (agronomist/soil scientist) by profession and have very often seen in the course of field visits how destructive water falling or running off unprotected hillslopes can be. In a rural and natural environment, these periodic natural changes are self-correcting and don't involve a loss of life or properties. In an urbanised high density environment however, the damages and losses can be very high.

I do wonder if MPAJ would have the audacity to go ahead with such steep hillslope development if it is legally and financially liable should an untoward event occur. The fact that MPAJ legally escapes financial liability for such tragedies when they occur (as happened in the Highland Towers case) appears to give MPAJ the right to allow such dangerous land development without the accompanying accountability and responsibility.

I will now conclude by appealing to all (MPAJ, the residents in the adjoining residential areas and the Malaysian public in general including our elected leaders) to throw out this proposal and plan. It is absolutely foolhardy!