One diner expressed her worry over the lack of exit signs and fire extinguishers at Gua Lepak food court. — FIlepic
SHOULD the economic benefit and public pleasure of dining in a cave outweigh the cost to its ecological balance and public safety?Some respondents to StarMetro’s online poll (see graphic) last week on the cave dining issue said it was better to err on the side of caution and preserve the site’s integrity.
Others argued that cave dining was not unique, pointing out the existence of similar venues in other caves with proper regulations to protect the site.
ALSO READ: Push to manage Batu Caves sustainably
The poll results, as of March 17, revealed that a majority of respondents felt that dining in a cave should not be allowed.
NA Nargis, a senior executive for a publishing company, first discovered the food court called Gua Lepak last year through social media.
Intrigued by an image showcasing the cave’s vibrant lighting and painted walls, the food enthusiast embarked on a one-hour journey from Petaling Jaya to the site to experience it first-hand.
However, upon entering, her eagerness quickly turned into apprehension.
“I was initially fascinated by the concept of dining in a cave, but once I was inside, it felt completely different.
“To be honest, I felt afraid,” she recounted.
Nargis’ primary concerns revolved around the lack of adequate fire exits and the fear of being trapped in the event of a natural disaster.
“Apart from feeling claustrophobic, I noticed a glaring absence of fire extinguishers and clear signs for exits.
“That was my cue to leave as soon as possible,” she said.
In contrast, Sarah Sulaiman, from Cheras, had a positive cave dining experience, finding it exhilarating despite its shortcomings.
“Although it was a bit damp and poorly ventilated, I understood the cave’s inherent conditions.
“However, I wish there were better ventilation systems in place to enhance safety,” Sarah said.
LA21 Kuala Lumpur Safe City Coordinator Ghani A. Mohamed expressed shock at the absence of safety protocols within the cave.
He stressed the importance of proper exits and signs, particularly in an uncharted environment.
Ghani stresses the importance of proper exits and signage in a cave.
Ramlan Kasim, an engineer who lives in Gombak, questioned whether the food court had been checked by the Fire and Rescue Department.
“With all the extensions and renovations done there, I wonder if it is certified by the Fire Department,’’ he added.
StarMetro’s report on March 11, “Food court in Gombak cave stirs up concerns”, had highlighted issues surrounding an eatery operating inside a cave.
For the uninitiated, Gua Lepak is the name given by the food court’s proprietor for his business but the cave’s actual name, according to reports and literature, is Swamp Cave.
It is located within the boundary of the National Gombak-Hulu Langat Geopark (GHL Geopark).
Selangor government is currently working to seek Unesco recognition for the geopark. — By BAVANI M and SHALINI RAVINDRAN
