The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry has expressed disappointment over the Penang government's failure to monitor an affordable housing project in Tanjung Bungah, where a landslide occurred on Saturday, leading to at least 11 fatalities.

According to the ministry, the developer began construction without the proper approvals. 

The developer's application to the Department of Environment for planning permission was rejected as there was no buffer zone between the construction site and a nearby granite quarry, making it dangerous for future inhabitants.

According to the ministry, Teik Granite Quarry, which has been operating since 1960, is located directly above the hillslope. It conducts blasting twice a month, with the last being carried out on Oct 9.

"We never supported the condominium project as there are no sufficient buffer zones between the project site and the quarry.

"We issued a rejection letter on Jan 23, 2015.

"We are perplexed that there was no interference from the state government. This raises more questions than answers,” the ministry said in a statement.

It added that since the development involves steep slopes, a detailed engineering study was required for approval, which includes an environmental impact assessment.

Despite not having the proper paperwork, the developer went ahead with the project, showing “blatant disregard” for the lives of its workers.

“We would like to strongly urge the Penang government to re-examine its plans to develop any hillside project.

“We trust the government will do the right thing and prevent such incidents from happening again and work for the good of the people,” the statement read.

Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng had said a press conference would be held at noon today to respond to the ministry, while Penang Island City Council mayor Maimunah Sharif claimed the ministry's rejection letter was sent before she assumed her current post.