A tragedy in remembrance: Batangkali31.com

Summary

• A new website now stands as an eternal tribute to those lost in the 2022 landslide in Batang Kali, Selangor.

• Under the “Stories” section, there were haunting yet deeply moving accounts.

In the quiet, early hours of Dec 16, 2022, tragedy struck. A catastrophic landslide tore through a popular campsite in Batang Kali, Selangor, burying families beneath an avalanche of earth and debris.

In an instant, what was meant to be a peaceful retreat turned into an unimaginable nightmare.

Over 90 unsuspecting individuals had gathered at Father’s Organic Farm. Thirty-one lives were lost - among them, 13 children.

Last year, a group of 23, including family members of those who died, filed a negligence suit against the Selangor state government.

A new website, Batangkali31.com, now stands as an eternal tribute to those lost. More than just a memorial, it is a testament to love, loss, and resilience.

In the “About” section, a message reads: “Our hearts are with the victims and their families, whose lives have been irrevocably changed by this disaster. As they navigate their grief and recovery, we are committed to amplifying their voices and preserving the memories of their loved ones.

“Through firsthand accounts and personal stories, we aim to bring the human side of this tragedy to light, honouring the pain and resilience of those affected.”

Hub of information

But this site is not only about remembrance. Batangkali31.com serves as a hub of information.

Under the “Stories” section, haunting yet deeply moving accounts unfold. Among them is the story of Ng Yu Chuan, a father who lost his beloved 11-year-old daughter, Ng Yee Tong.

Even in death, he keeps her close. Every Friday, he visits her grave, speaking to her, eating with her. On special days - Mid-Autumn Festival, Lunar New Year - he and his family bring lanterns and fireworks.

And then, there is Vincent Khor, who lost not just his wife, Chin Su King, 36, but also their five-year-old son, Daniel. The weight of his grief was unbearable, especially at night.

“Going to bed was the toughest time. For weeks after the funeral, I couldn’t sleep - until the dreams began.

“The first one showed me what happened to them. A huge commotion and them being buried. There was a loud sound like a melon cracked under tremendous weight. It was very noisy but don’t know what happened. The dream was so vivid. I could remember it so clearly even after I had woken up.

“The dreams happened a week apart. The second time I dreamt my wife came back and was in the toilet. I was looking at her from behind. I went to check to see if she was hurt. It was so clear. Then we were in bed hugging but I couldn’t say anything. She comforted me saying we were fortunate to have met, had a family and had happiness.

“In the last dream, my wife told me that she was taking my son to a place far away. Even though she said far away but it felt like they had gone out for only a while for shopping or to stay in hotel. They would come back shortly and we would meet again. After that, I woke up, found that I was alone again.”

Batangkali31.com is more than a website. It is a promise that the lives lost will not fade into obscurity.

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