Mohamad Azhan (middle, in grey cap) alongside Sharipah Marhaini (fifth from left) launching The Spine@PJKita in Kelana Jaya. — Photos: CHAN TAK KONG/The Star
PETALING Jaya is set to be formally recognised as Malaysia’s first child-friendly city in September this year.
Petaling Jaya mayor Mohamad Azhan Md Amir said the city’s initiatives and projects since 2009, including involving children in the planning and city’s development process, had earned recognition from the United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef).
“The involvement of children in city development is vital since they are the future bearers of our legacy.
“By ensuring that we provide them with the best opportunities and resources, Petaling Jaya can aspire to become an even more prosperous city in the years to come,” he said at the launch of The Spine@PJKita, a community centre hub in Kelana Jaya.
With this goal in mind, the community centre located in Jalan Stadium SS7/15, was built as a space to attract young individuals and children while also benefiting all residents of Petaling Jaya.
The new community centre will house the office for the PJ children’s council.
It offers a venue for the masses to participate in or organise programmes and activities.
The RM3.5mil centre was completed in 2021, but its official launch was postponed until this year due to the pandemic.
The centre’s role is integral to the realisation of the 10 themes outlined in the Petaling Jaya Smart, Sustainable and Resilient City 2030 (PJSSR 2030) plan.
A key focus of the centre is to fulfil the theme of “child-friendly city”, with the hub also serving as an office for the PJ children’s council.
“This is a platform for the children and the younger generation, hence it is right for the children council office to be here.
“The members have the opportunity to gather, conduct meetings, and engage in discussions regarding activities that involve children,” he said.
Present at the event were Petaling Jaya deputy mayor Sharipah Marhaini Syed Ali, Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) Zone 22 councillor Rahibah Che Omar and the community centre architect Dr Tan Loke Mun.
At The Spine@PJKita, Petaling Jaya residents can also make use of the city’s first-ever recycling drive-through hub, enabling them to conveniently dispose of recyclable materials while also providing entrepreneurs with a dedicated space to conduct business activities that will further enrich the community.
Kiosks that cater to various needs, such as bill payment, managing summonses and tax payments are available.
