GEORGE TOWN, Aug 17 — The Penang Public Works Department (JKR) has advised the Penang Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JHEAIPP) to temporarily close the Sheikh Tahir Astronomy Centre building, in Balik Pulau, near here after a landslide occurred in the area yesterday.

Penang Infrastructure and Transport Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said the building was unsafe for occupation following the landslide triggered by a heavy downpour.

“JKR has informed JHEAIPP about the matter and asked for temporary closure until the repair work is completed,” he said when contacted today.

Zairil said JKR would use a more resilient method, namely the tieback wall to repair the affected slope.

He said the contractor to carry out the repair works would be appointed soon.

Source: BERNAMA News Agency