MPAJ guidelines to regulate activities within geopark area
Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) expects to complete a draft guideline by middle of next year to regulate riverside recreational and commercial activities.
This is part of the council’s effort to formalise management within the Gombak–Hulu Langat Geopark (GHLGp).
MPAJ deputy president Hasrolnizam Shaari said guidelines would outline clear rules for activities near river reserves in areas like Kampung Kemensah, Taman Melawati and Klang Gates which are within the GHLGp.
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He added that the draft, currently being prepared with several state agencies, was meant for environmental protection, safety standards and permissible business operations.
“Our aim is to align human activities with the geopark concept, especially those near rivers.
“We hope to have the draft completed by the middle of 2026 and implement it within the same year,” he told StarMetro.
Hasrolnizam said the growing mix of activities, ranging from cafes to all-terrain vehicle (ATV) rides, made it necessary for MPAJ to inventory all operations and establish a consistent system.
MPAJ’s previous census found that none of the 70 businesses in Kampung Kemensah were licensed due to zoning and land-status restrictions.
The area is primarily designated for agricultural and residential use, making licensing difficult.
However, similar businesses have also cropped up along the riverside in Taman Melawati and Klang Gates area.
“We are documenting every activity in these places.
“Our aim is to produce a guideline that identifies which activities should be allowed and how they can operate in a way that supports the geopark.”
Hasrolnizam added that in the meantime, MPAJ was monitoring operations closely to prevent environmental harm.
“For now, we make sure activities do not pollute the river nor compromise visitor safety.
“While basic support services such as food, drinks and rest areas are necessary for visitors, crowd-pulling events are not allowed.
“We do not allow performances, festivals or activities meant to create unusual attractions,” he said.
Although some activities appear to be tolerated despite lacking licences, Hasrolnizam said this transitional approach was part of efforts to develop an integrated solution for the geopark.
“We want these activities to function in harmony with nature and the community.”
In June, StarMetro reported that MPAJ had submitted a proposal in January to the Selangor Economic Action Council (MTES) to allow conditional temporary business licences and introduce legalisation guidelines for riverside activities.
The state later agreed in principle and MPAJ began drafting the operational framework, coordinating with several agencies, including Forestry Department, Selangor planning authorities, Drainage and Irrigation Department, Selangor Water Management Board (Luas) and Gombak Land Office.
GHLGp was declared the state’s first national geopark on Nov 16 last year.
Selangor planned to apply for Unesco Global Geopark designation to promote the area’s rich geological heritage and support eco-tourism development.
