An aerial view of the plot in Jalan Vista Mutiara 1, Kepong, that was cleared without authorisation. — Photos: CHAN TAK KON/The Star
UNAUTHORISED clearing of government reserve land in Kepong, Kuala Lumpur, said to be earmarked for a food court, has been halted by the authorities.
The residents are now urging Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to build a recreational park at the plot of land in Jalan Vista Mutiara 1 to benefit over 1,000 residential units in the area.
Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng’s special assistant Dic Lai said residents became suspicious when hoarding was put up around the 0.4ha plot about two weeks ago.
He said subsequent enquiries with the Federal Territories Land and Mines office (PTGWP) showed that the land clearing was carried out without approval.
Lai said checks also showed that the land was zoned as recreational space under the management of PTGWP.
“There was no notice board at the site to indicate what activities were carried out.
“After we reported the matter, officers from PTGWP came several days ago to put up a notice instructing those responsible to stop any activities on the land.
“We have also contacted DBKL to determine if there has been any proposals to build a food court here.
Lai (right) and Leo hope the authorities will reconsider approving the food court.
“Even if a proposal is submitted, no one is allowed to clear the land until approval is given,” he told a press conference at the site yesterday.
Lai said this could be considered trespassing as it was still government land.
He added that a banner that was put up in nearby Taman Sri Sinar indicated that a food court would be built on the site.
Meanwhile, VK Leo, a representative of First Resident condominium, urged the authorities to build a recreational park on the plot instead.
“We hope the authorities will reconsider approving the food court if a proposal has been submitted.
“The current parking situation here is already strained due to the existing facilities.
“Having a food court without addressing the parking issue will worsen the congestion,” he stressed, adding that lack of hygiene was also a concern.
Leo said a food court that could operate late into the night could cause disturbances to the surrounding residents.
Hawker Goh Boon Hwa, 59, concurred that a food court was unnecessary as there were already plenty of food and beverage outlets in the area.
“The eateries here are already facing stiff competition.
“This food court will only make our business worse,” he said, adding that he had been operating there for more than three years.
