A choice place to live with many high-rise and low-cost flats projects

LOCATED in the northeast border of Kuala Lumpur, Wangsa Maju is a constituency that is densely populated and busy.

Consisting mostly of residential areas, it has become prime real estate over the past years with property developers banking on its close proximity to the Kuala Lumpur city centre.

Because of that, development projects are burgeoning in the constituency and is packed to the brim with high-rises and low-cost flats.

The constituency encompasses Taman Melati, Taman Wangsa Melawati, Danau Kota, Setapak and the Wangsa Maju townships.

It was carved out in 2004 from the Setiawangsa parliamentary seat.

With major roads running through the territory, such as the Middle Ring Road 2 (MRR2), Jalan Pahang and Duta-Ulu Klang Expressway, it is no wonder people chose the area to settle down.

Most residents comprised mainly of low- to middle-income households.

The presence of education institutions such as the Tunku Abdul Rahman University College also contributed to the high student population there.

Eateries also open until late night to cater for the demand as seen in Taman Desa Setapak and commercial shoplots along Jalan Genting Kelang.

Wangsa Maju MP Datuk Dr Tan Kee Kwong said over-development had become one of the pressing issues in the area.

“Existing infrastructure can no longer cope with the growing development.

“For example, there were plans to build three blocks of 54-storey building in Wangsa Melawati but what people need is a community centre, play grounds and a market place.

“Also, irregular water supply and flash floods often occur here whenever there is a downpour,” he said.

Tan added that although local issues would affect the daily lives of Wangsa Maju folks, they are more concerned about national issues.

“We are in an urban seat and most people are worried about the ever escalating cost of living.

“Like everybody else, they are concerned about their jobs, their children’s education and security.

“Cost of living is increasing and this suffocates urban residents,” he added.

Meanwhile, the growing population contributed to traffic congestion especially along one of the main arterial roads ­­– Jalan Genting Kelang, during peak hours.

Upgrades were also needed for old PPR flats in Danau Kota and the Setapak areas.

The recent redelineation saw an increase of 7,375 voters to the constituency, making the new total 74,584.