Maimunah hopes the balcony garden contest will inspire more people to grow their own food, no matter where they are. — Photos: KAMARUL ARIFFIN/ The Star
A BALCONY garden competition is among the highlights at this year’s KL Park Festival, which will take place from Oct 17 to 26 at Taman Tasik Titiwangsa.
Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif hopes the balcony garden contest will inspire more people to grow their own food, no matter where they are.
A total of 15 balcony lots will showcase creative gardening designs which can be adopted for those living in high-rises.
“Apart from addressing food security concerns, people who grow their own vegetables can be assured that they are 100% organic,” said Maimunah.
On parks, she said that besides being scenic retreats, they also played a crucial role in flood mitigation, wildlife conservation and providing clean air, making them an essential part of a thriving metropolis.
“Through creative garden showcases and interactive programmes, this biennial festival will foster a shared appreciation for nature and encourage collective effort towards greener and more sustainable urban living,” she said at the rooftop garden of TRX Exchange when announcing the competition.
This year’s festival organised by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) will have a section selling produce from community gardens.
Dancers from Kuala Lumpur City Hall’s Culture, Tourism and Sports Department performing during the announcement at the rooftop garden of TRX Exchange.
Additionally, 50 nurseries have confirmed their participation in the event.
The festival will also feature a forum on solutions for flood mitigation and rising temperatures in urban environments.
Speakers from Indonesia, Thailand, Australia and the Netherlands will explore topics such as sponge cities, climate- resilient urban design and the use of sustainable methods and materials.
Other highlights include an immersive light and projector show at Taman Tasik Titiwangsa with a Malaysian folklore theme featuring characters such as Puteri Gunung Ledang and Sang Kancil.
Visitors can also look forward to drum and dance shows featuring troupes from South-East Asia, as well as street food and traditional delicacies from all Asean nations.
Maimunah thanked 40 strategic partners, comprising companies, agencies, associations and international bodies.
“Their support ensures that this festival remains free for everyone,” added the mayor.
As a prelude to the festival, a landscape showcase entitled Asean Unity Garden will be set up at the Raintree Plaza of TRX Exchange from Oct 4 to 26.
For details, visit www.klparkfestival.com
