RESIDENTS in Sungai Besi, Kuala Lumpur, want better infrastructure and facilities from developers building new projects in their township.
They say developers should also contribute to infrastructure development or build essential facilities such as schools and clinics.
Kampung Malaysia Raya Residents Association chairman Mohd Zainuddin Amran said developers building projects near parks, green lungs and flood retention ponds must give back to the community by providing more amenities.
“For example, even though they are cross-subsidising their project by building more affordable homes, they need to realise that more housing units mean more people and more cars coming into the township.
“You need space for parking, schools for children, clinics and even parks for recreational activities, so they need to contribute more to facilitate that development,” he said.
Zainuddin cited Klinik Kesihatan Sungai Besi as an example, noting that it was constantly packed and unable to cope with the growing population.
“The services are strained, and we don’t even have a dental clinic here. I think that developers should do more.
“The developer can even take credit by putting their company name, logo or branding on the building,” he added.
Resident Salmah Johari from Kampung Malaysia Tambahan believes developers should also create recreation areas such as playgrounds, and said, “We don’t need a big space, just a small spot with some trees and benches to relax in.”
Selvi Raju from Pekan Sungei Besi pointed out that areas where developers were building affordable homes for first-time homeowners should also have affordable kindergartens and nurseries.
“Young married couples who buy affordable homes in the developer’s projects are going to need such facilities.
“These developers must give back and they can do it as a corporate social responsibility initiative,” added Selvi. — By BAVANI M