A NEW recreational park in Taman Cahaya, Ampang Jaya in Selangor, has received approval from its surrounding community.
The park on Jalan Cahaya 12 was constructed by Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) with a RM500,000 Housing and Local Government Ministry allocation.
A resident of the nearby Bella Vista apartments, KC Tan, said it was a good decision to have a park just next to the property.
“There aren’t many open spaces where people can gather and relax in this area, so this park is a welcomed addition,” said Tan who has lived in Bella Vista for over a decade.
The new park features a children’s playset and jogging track.
A Taman Cahaya resident, who only wanted to be known as Sabariah, said while she welcomed the park, more seating was needed.
“There is plenty of open space and walking paths, but not enough places to sit, especially for senior citizens like me.”
Sabariah, who has been visiting the park daily with her grandchildren since it opened, said benches and shaded seating would make it more comfortable and accessible to all age groups.
MPAJ Zone 8 councillor Datuk Yap Wee Seng said residents from at least six neighbourhoods could enjoy the park facilities.
They include Taman Cahaya, Taman Dagang, Taman Cahaya Indah, Taman Cempaka, Taman Nirwana and Kampung Baru Ampang.
“There is a lack of public parks in these mature areas.
“Finding spaces where a new green space could be built was difficult,” said Yap.
“This site used to be idle land as it was also near high-tension cables,” he said, recalling that residents had suggested it be turned into a park.
He said MPAJ managed to complete construction of the almost 1ha park in six months.
“Hopefully, we will be able to identify more spaces that can be turned into pocket parks,” he added.
In a media statement, MPAJ said the construction of the park was part of its ongoing efforts to enhance community infrastructure and improve access to recreational and leisure facilities within its jurisdiction.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to providing comfortable, community friendly public spaces that promoted a healthy lifestyle for all.
Bukit Antarabangsa assemblyman Mohd Kamri Kamaruddin, who is also Selangor Deputy Speaker, MPAJ deputy president Hasrolnizam Shaari and Youth, Community and Landscape Department director Mohamad Yusuf Sulaiman visited the park.
