Open lettter to Petaling Jaya MP Lee Chean Chung

Dear YB,

WE appreciate your recent efforts to listen to the people and propose ideas to resolve troublesome first- and last-mile transport issues. 

Lack of public transport and appalling infrastructure have been the core issues. If public transport connectivity was simple and solvable, all other previous governments would’ve fixed it. The unity govt has prioritised public transport. 

We propose quick action steps that you can spearhead in our first- and last-mile connectivity project.

1. Collective leadership

By pushing for a joint KL-PJ task force, a cross-border project could share resources, funding, and operation costs. We need you to lead the project along with Selangor Menteri Besar Amirudin Shari and Damansara MP Gobind Singh.

Your credentials in sustainability are most suitable to create a feasible working project team to transform the Klang Valley infrastructure. 

2. Sample project location 

We suggest using a familiar former PJDL 2.0 alignment. We should test a pilot project using the Hydrogen ART bus/tram service. This starts from the TTDI  MRT station to Jaya Shopping Centre (5km distance). From here, install user friendly e-bikes lanes and  travellators to reach theAsia Jaya LRT station. 

Also parallel to this, to install and improve bicycle, e-bike and pedestrian crossings along the same route. 

3. Delivery methods:

a) Ride-sharing apps
Develop and promote ride-sharing apps that integrate various modes of transport, including buses, trains, bicycles, and ridesharing services, 

b) Smart transit stops for ART bus/autonomous vehicles
Implement smart transit stops equipped with real-time tracking for schedules. These stops can also serve as hubs for connecting mini and small vehicles. With that, we promote sustainability by using electric scooters, e-bikes, and autonomous shuttles, which are convenient, eco-friendly options for short-distance commuting.

c) Smart space use
Dedicated lanes and parking areas for these e-bikes and vehicles to ensure safe and convenient usage will require local council feedback. Studies on capacity load analysis need to be undertaken. Once they are done, the local councils can provide a cost-effective way to bridge the gap between transit stations and destinations. Long-term infrastructure with pedestrian-friendly routes and bike-sharing programmes at transit hubs will encourage walking and cycling.

d) Urban planning mobility with green policies
i. Targeted fuel subsidy for small motorbikes at RM5 per fill
ii. Market rate public transport fare with monthly 80% reimbursement for target groups for goodwill and support
iii. Entitlement certificates valid for 15 years for passenger cars
iv. Mixed-use development near transit stations combining transit-oriented development, such as pedestrian-friendly environments, charging infrastructure for electric vehicles and landscape design.

If this project works, commuters will be encouraged to exercise daily and with ease. Healthy citizens translate into a healthy nation. 

We urgently request you to put to action your wish lists and create a team to deliver them. We appreciate your efforts and attention to this critical issue. – September 21, 2023.

* Michael Kum is Resident Association Section 20 PJ secretary.