RAMPANT vandalism of infrastructure at public spaces is not only eroding their functionality but also escalating maintenance costs, says Kampung Tunku assemblyman Lim Yi Wei.
“Recent cases of vandalism at a park along Jalan SS2/61 and a pedestrian bridge near the Seri Setia KTM Station not only compromises public safety but also wastes taxpayers’ funds.
“Bollards newly installed by Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) to prevent motorcycles from entering certain areas, were forcibly removed to create openings,” Lim said after a press briefing on a newly upgraded park along Jalan SS2/25 in Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
“These measures are not implemented arbitrarily but are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all users.”
The continuance of such behaviour only reduces the effectiveness of taxpayer resources, she added.
“If we, as a community, are serious about improving the area and want the government to invest in facilities, we also have to take care of them,” said Lim.
SS2 Selatan Residents Association chairman Ching Leng Chu said residents would always benefit from upgraded facilities but tended to take things for granted.
“We are happy when we have upgraded facilities, but maintaining the facilities in good condition is tough.
“The responsibility falls on both the local council and residents,” he said.
“It is irresponsible residents who make it difficult but the residents association is trying to inculcate some sense of civic- mindedness in people,” he added.
Meanwhile, Lim said the newly upgraded park at Jalan SS2/25 was completed following almost two months of work carried out by MBPJ at a cost of RM60,000.
Along with new rubber mats for the playground, an additional walkway and two picnic tables were added.
MBPJ Zone 8 councillor Loh Y Lun said other recent upgrades to parks over the past six months included walkways at SS2/43 and SS2/53, and improvements to the basketball court at SS2/18.
Upcoming projects include a new walkway for SS2/48 and improvements to the basketball court at SS2/6.
“Additional requests will be made for budget allocations to further improve park conditions,” he added.
