Open letter to Petaling Jaya Mayor Mohamad Azhan Md

TUAN,

We write representing concerned residents of nearby Section 11 Petaling Jaya. This is regarding the major development project on the former Dutch Lady factory land that was recently sold to UEM Sunrise developer.

Firstly, we appreciate and commend the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) representatives, for their dedication to sustainable urban planning and development, as well as significant award wins in the past year.

This development has sparked significant interest and apprehension among the local community, and we believe it is crucial to address both short- and long-term solutions for the betterment of our neighbourhood. 

We understand that in a year from now, there will be subsequent phased development of the large plot of land in the vicinity. For Petaling Jaya, we understand the importance of economic growth and progress needs to be done, to collect more quit rent and taxes, which is justifiable. 

Secondly, as long-time neighbouring residents, we request that your management publicly ensure that development progress will be balanced with proper well-being and quality of life for surrounding residents (nearby Sections 14, 17, 19, and 20). 

May we propose to MBPJ some practical ideas as follows:

Part A – Short-term solutions (years 1-2):

1. Traffic management: 

From the looks of it, the next seven years on Jalan Semangat will look like a war zone, with increased construction and subsequent population, leading to traffic congestion. We request practical implementation of short-term traffic management solutions, such as better signage, traffic lights optimisation, and additional pedestrian crossings, to mitigate this issue during the construction phase.

2. Community engagement: 

Please educate, communicate and work closely with residents associations, so that businesses and local residents are kept informed and engaged throughout the development process. Hold regular community meetings and periodic updates on the project’s progress, road closure, even road repairs, will help reduce concerns, and gain involvement among residents.

3. Environmental impact assessment: 

We believe that a proper environmental impact assessment was conducted earlier. Do let the community know what remedial measures will be taken, to improve and mitigate noise, air, and water pollution, during and post development of said land and surrounding vicinity, to the Masjid Bulat (right opposite the development).

Part B – Long-term solutions (years 3-7 and beyond):

1. Green spaces and parks 

We cannot deny that sustainable development goals are absolutely necessary. Sir, as development progresses, it is crucial to allocate spaces for parks and green areas within the new community, as they enhance the quality of life for residents, and improve PJ’s green initiative surrounding it. 

This entire Section 11 is former factory area. Are there enough green enclaves in the area? There is a river passing through this Dutch Lady area, and we hope UEM will improve and beautify it.

2. Reconsider PJ’s infrastructure development

Assemblymen, MBPJ councillors may need to assess and prioritise adequate infrastructure such as repurposing old schools, improving government Universiti Malaya Medical Centre healthcare facilities, and urgently scaling up public transport, which can be integrated and planned to accommodate the growing population in this entire Section 11 and surrounding areas.

3. Sustainability

MBPJ ought to incorporate sustainable and eco-friendly practices into the construction and design of the new development with UEM. For example, to produce and include green building certifications, energy-efficient systems, and waste reduction programmes. The Jalan Semangat stretch is a very important area due to to its access routes, and main artery to many places. 

4. Preservation of heritage

Perhaps the 60-year-old Dutch Lady brand and even the surrounding old factories have a story to tell. For all the historical or cultural elements of Petaling Jaya as a former satellite city post war, and even on the Dutch Lady factory site, we urge you to work with the developer to ensure there is some preservation and integration into the new development.

Finally, through these short- and long-term solutions, MBPJ has to ensure that the Section 11 development is not just for developmental progress but a testament to a working model of sustainable and inclusive urban planning. Get all the best consultants you can find and build our city collectively. 

Your leadership and input from local executive councillors, with collaboration among MBPJ, residents associations and the developers’ collective wisdom, it will hopefully play a pivotal role in achieving this goal.

We are keen to explore all these sustainable points at the EAROPH&PETA (Town Planning) project event, on September 23, at the PJ Civic Centre.

We hope to discuss these matters further with your representatives and thank you for your dedication to the welfare of our community. – September 17, 2023.

* Michael Kum is Resident Association Section 20 PJ secretary. 

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.