DBKL COMPENSATION RULING A WAKE-UP CALL FOR LOCAL AUTHORITIES - LEE LAM THYE

KUALA LUMPUR, March 25 (Bernama) -- The court’s decision ordering the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to pay RM824,180 in compensation to the family of a victim killed by a falling tree sends a strong message to all local authorities on the importance of prioritising public safety.

Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said the ruling is significant as it underscores the duty of care that local authorities must uphold to ensure public infrastructure and facilities under their jurisdiction are properly maintained at all times.

He said the tragic incident, which is not the first of its kind, highlights a critical issue regarding the consistency of maintenance efforts in urban areas.

“While planting trees and beautifying cities are commendable initiatives, these efforts must be accompanied by consistent inspection, risk assessment, and timely maintenance. 

“Without proper care, roadside trees, especially ageing or weakened ones, can become serious hazards, particularly during storms, heavy rain, or strong winds,” he said in a statement today.

Lee stressed that the responsibility of local authorities extends beyond tree management to include the upkeep of potholes, damaged walkways, faulty streetlights, unstable structures, and other public amenities.

He warned that any lapse in maintenance could expose the public to unnecessary danger and lead to preventable injuries or loss of life.

In this regard, Lee urged local authorities to adopt a more proactive approach to risk management. Among his recommendations are conducting regular tree health and structural assessments, identifying high-risk areas along busy roads, and implementing preventive pruning or the removal of dangerous trees.

He also called for the establishment of rapid response teams during extreme weather conditions and the strengthening of accountability mechanisms through proper maintenance records.

“This ruling also sends a clear message that when negligence leads to harm, affected parties have the right to seek justice through the courts. 

“Let this decision serve as a wake-up call for all local councils nationwide to review their maintenance systems, strengthen enforcement, and prioritise public safety,” Lee said.

He added that prevention must always take precedence over compensation, as no amount of money can replace a life lost. 

Yesterday, the Sessions Court ordered the Kuala Lumpur Mayor to pay RM824,180 in damages to Gooi Ling Sim, 61, and Phun Kok Hoi, 63, after their son, Phun Mun Lap, 30, was killed by a falling tree on a road divider maintained by DBKL three years ago.

The victim, a crane driver, was riding his motorcycle to work along Jalan Kuching on March 22, 2023, when the incident occurred, and he succumbed to his injuries at Selayang Hospital on March 24, 2023. 

-- BERNAMA