Cover image via Chee Heng Kuan
Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp for the latest stories and breaking news.
Kuan Chee Heng, a social activist better known as Uncle Kentang, is sounding the alarm after a woman reportedly died in her condominium unit while help was delayed at the gate
In a widely shared post, the community activist criticised what he described as "rigid" and dangerous security protocols in high-rise residences.
According to Kuan, the incident involved a 50-year-old woman believed to have suffered a cardiac arrest inside her condo unit.
Her business partner had rushed over to assist but was allegedly denied entry by security guards for about 45 minutes.
The guards reportedly insisted on waiting for clearance from their superiors before allowing access, strictly following standard operating procedures (SOPs).
By the time access was granted and they reached the unit, the woman had already died.
In his post, Kuan argued that such rigid security measures can backfire if there are no exceptions for emergencies
He stressed that in urgent situations, security personnel should prioritise immediate response over protocol.
"The higher the security you have with standard and rigid instructions, the more fatal it will be if you have a medical emergency."
Beyond the incident itself, Kuan pointed to broader gaps in how many condominiums handle emergencies.
He claimed that most guards are not properly trained to deal with medical situations, fires, or other urgent threats.
He also highlighted the absence of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in many residential buildings, devices that can significantly improve survival rates during cardiac arrest.
"Most condo do not have AED too," he wrote, calling it a serious oversight.
Kuan also took aim at Joint Management Bodies (JMBs), accusing some of prioritising enforcement and administrative matters over resident safety
He claimed management committees are often quick to enforce rules like maintenance fee payments, but fail to put proper emergency systems in place.
"They are good at denying entry if you are late in paying JMB fees or maintenance fees… This cannot be tolerated. It can cost lives."
Following the incident, Kuan urged both authorities and residents to push for stricter safety requirements in residential buildings
Among his suggestions:
- Mandatory installation of at least two AED units in every condo or apartment
- Emergency response training for guards and management committees
- Clear protocols that allow immediate access during medical emergencies
He also urged residents to proactively check with their building management on how emergencies are handled.
According to Kuan, the incident raises questions about how "security-first" policies are applied in high-rise residential buildings, where access is tightly controlled.
Kuan urged residents to ensure their building's security staff are trained to respond quickly to medical emergencies.
"Make sure your guards understand what [counts as] medical emergencies."
