A sale by tender sign on the facade of the abandoned Lucky Plaza. — Photos: YAP CHEE HONG/The Star
ONCE a bustling community landmark in Jalan Kelang Lama, Kuala Lumpur, the former Lucky Plaza Bandar Park is now a haunting shell of its former self.
It is slowly decaying in plain sight – its basement carpark is now stagnant with murky water, resembling a neglected swimming pool.
More than a decade after the business tenants were told to vacate on Aug 31, 2013, the building has slipped further into ruin despite sitting on 1.37ha prime commercial land, just minutes from the heart of the capital city.
Signs of squatting are evident as outside the building, broken furniture and makeshift bedding litter the area.
Corridors are strewn with dry leaves, food containers and old packaging.
A few plastic road barriers have been repurposed into an overflowing rubbish bin.
Discarded furniture and scattered rubbish at a ramp leading to the flooded basement carpark.
Parts of the ceiling have caved in, exposing rusted steel beams.
The basement carpark flooded with stagnant water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes, while trees and shrubs are growing through cracks in the walls and roof.
“In 2013, the building’s then Singapore-based owners issued notices to all tenants to vacate.
“At the time, there were talks about a hospital or condominium project (to be at the plaza site), but nothing materialised,” said Raj Kumar, a nearby resident.
Taman Desa Residents Association chairman Wong Chan Choy said, “This used to be our go-to place for groceries and weekend makan.
“Now it looks like something out of a horror movie. We avoid walking past it at night.”
“Despite its strategic location, surrounded by busy roads, housing estates, and businesses, the site has become a dead zone,” he added.
“What is stopping the owners or even the authorities from doing a basic clean-up?” fruit trader Shamsul Ahmad asked.
“The basement carpark is flooded and infested with mosquitoes.
“Buildings should never be allowed to deteriorate like this,” he said.
During a site visit, StarMetro found the place in a deplorable state with rubbish everywhere.
A sale by tender notice has been pasted on the front of the building, indicating the property is up for sale.
When contacted, a representative from the appointed real estate firm confirmed the building has been sold.
“We just sold it, and due to a non-disclosure agreement, we are unable to share details about the new owners or any future plans.”
A Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) Environment and Health Department officer said maintaining the building and its surroundings was the responsibility of the management.
“We will check on the place,” the officer, however, added.
Seputeh Residents Representative Council Zone 6 chairman Alvin T. Ariaratnam said the Federal Territories Land and Mines Office (PPTGWP) could act against derelict properties using provisions under the National Land Code 1965 (NLC).
He said Sections 127 and 128 of the NLC allowed the state to forfeit alienated land, while Section 116 (c) required owners to build and maintain habitable structures within two years.
“It is alarming that no one is taking responsibility for the growing number of abandoned buildings, which pose serious public health risks from infestations, missing fixtures, and structural damage.
“It is time the authorities step in.
“These buildings are more than just eyesores, they are a threat,” Alvin emphasised.
