More than 30 types of flowers have been planted in the Taman Pelangi playground at Jalan Biru Muda as part of the residents’ efforts to beautify the community area.
DURING the Covid-19 pandemic, Johor’s Taman Pelangi resident Koh Peng Chia started a gardening project to beautify the Jalan Biru Muda community park.
However, the 80-year-old died of a heart attack last year before the project could be completed.
Now, several neighbours who have taken over Koh’s project, plan to take it a step further by adding other elements to the garden.
Accountant Boo Ching Peng, one of those involved, said the decision to maintain the garden was meant as a tribute to Koh, who was Johor Baru Small Business Association secretary, while cultivating a livelier environment for others.
“The garden is located at the housing estate’s community park, which used to be under-maintained and an eyesore to the residents.
“Through our efforts, the garden has more than 30 types of flowers and eight fruit trees.
“We have named the garden after Koh.
“We are in the midst of creating a heart-shaped patch filled with plants that the residents can be proud of while pulling in more visitors,” said Boo.
The 70-year-old said he and two other residents – Ong Chin Kok and Sheley Yap – would divide tasks among themselves when tending to the garden daily from 6pm to 7.30pm.
Ong, 70, who has a passion for gardening, said it was a natural decision for her to continue Koh’s work.
“We were friends for years as I used to be in the same association as him.
“I have always been interested in gardening so I am happy to contribute to the project, which also allows me to exercise and spend time outdoors.
“It will be even better if more residents join the project, but we cannot force them. We do this purely on a voluntary basis,” she added.
Yap said the park has basketball and badminton courts as well as playground and gymnasium facilities, making it an ideal place for both the young and old to indulge in healthy activities.
“We hope the local council can build a roof over the courts so that residents can conduct their activities come rain or shine.
“We also hope to have a water tap at the park to irrigate the garden and clear the clogged drains.
“We are currently using the tap in a neighbour’s compound to water the plants,” said the 68-year-old retired teacher.
Stulang assemblyman Andrew Chen, when contacted, said he planned to meet with Johor Baru mayor Datuk Mohd Noorazam Osman to discuss several requests from the constituents, including those by the Taman Pelangi residents.
More than 30 types of flowers have been planted in the Taman Pelangi playground at Jalan Biru Muda as part of the residents’ efforts to beautify the community area.
(From left) Boo, Ong and Yap creating a heart-shaped patch at the garden initiated by Koh in Taman Pelangi, Johor Baru.
