PUCHONG: The flood at IOI Mall Puchong in Bandar Puchong Jaya affected 71 stores and 65 vehicles, according to Serdang OCPD Asst Comm AA Anbalagan.

“The rising waters were caused by a downpour that began at 5.45 pm and lasted until 7.30 pm yesterday (Dec 16),” he stated during a press conference at the Pusat Bandar Puchong landslide site at 12.05 am Sunday (Dec 17).

He mentioned that agencies, including the Land and Mines Department and the Subang Jaya City Council's (MBSJ) engineering department, are currently investigating the soil condition at Jalan Wawasan 3/9 in Puchong. This location witnessed a landslide that led to the evacuation of residents from seven houses and damaged four vehicles.

“The agencies are still examining the soil’s condition and gathering information,” ACP Anbalagan said, noting that the heavy rain might be a potential cause.

“Air Selangor is also on-site to shut down the water. It's possible the pipe has ruptured, and we are clamping it to stop the water source if the soil has been damaged.

"Initial reports suggested that a factor could be the heavy rain, and the continuous downpour might have triggered soil movement," he explained, emphasizing that the police are awaiting reports from experts.

Subang Jaya mayor Datuk Mohd Fauzi Mohd Yatim, who was present earlier, stated that the council is installing a 150mm sheet pile as an initial measure, with completion expected by Sunday.

Anbalagan advised residents in the vicinity to avoid visiting the landslide site due to unstable soil conditions.

He added that the police will closely monitor the area to ensure a smooth process for the ongoing investigation.