Austral Park Residents Demand Action Over Piling Works Causing Home Vibrations

22 October 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Residents of Austral Park in Kepayan Ridge have raised serious concerns over ongoing piling works at a nearby commercial development site, claiming the activities are causing strong vibrations and structural damage to their homes.

According to residents, the tremors which have persisted since the start of the project nearly two years ago, have caused walls and fixtures to shake violently. Many fear that cracks and roof leaks are only a matter of time if the situation continues unchecked.

In a statement released by Ronald Cooke, they allege that the piling works, which often continue late into the night as well as on weekends and public holidays, are being conducted without proper monitoring by government agencies, including Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK). The residents also cited dust pollution and diesel fumes as additional concerns.

“Our homes are shaking. We’re worried about our families’ safety and the integrity of our buildings,” said one resident, describing the impact as “a serious safety issue rather than a mere inconvenience.”

Residents further claimed that despite their repeated appeals, the project was approved without adequate consultation or safety assessments being shared with the affected community.

In a joint statement, the residents called for all piling activities to be suspended immediately until independent structural inspections can be carried out. They also urged DBKK to:

Enforce a temporary stop-work order;

Conduct vibration monitoring and publish safety thresholds;

Facilitate a public dialogue between residents, DBKK, and the developer; and

Establish a compensation mechanism for property damage.

The controversy follows earlier objections to the rezoning of land originally designated as open space under the Kepayan Ridge Development Scheme. Residents fear that continued lack of transparency and enforcement could set a troubling precedent for future developments.

“We are not against development, but it must not come at the expense of public safety and our rights as homeowners,” said a resident spokesperson.

Resident representative, Cooke said the matter had been brought to the attention of the Chief Minister’s Office, but there had been no response from DBKK Mayor or the Sabah Housing and Town Development Board (LPPB) despite multiple complaints.