Selayang Hot Spring being upgraded in preparation for Selangor’s push for Unesco Global Geopark designation.
Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) will prioritise tourism preparedness, redevelopment projects and tighter regulation of micro-traders this year.
Its policies and spending will align with several high-profile events including Visit Malaysia 2026, Second Selangor Plan (RS-2) and Sukma 2026, said MPAJ deputy president Hasrolnizam Shaari.
For 2026, the council allocated RM185.40mil, comprising RM126.13mil for operating costs and RM59.27mil for development, he said.
Development spending will cover infrastructure works, community programmes, recreation facilities, parks, solid waste management, public amenities and waste disposal.
“We have already begun preparations to strengthen tourism-related elements, particularly linked to the Gombak–Hulu Langat Geopark.
“We are engaging with the relevant stakeholders and in the midst of drafting riverside business guidelines that will be completed within the first half of the year,” he said, adding that the initiative was part of efforts to enhance Ampang Jaya’s tourism profile.
Redevelopment of Kampung Fajar and Kampung Warisan in Hulu Kelang expected to move forward this year. — File photos
Redevelopment plans for Kampung Fajar and Kampung Warisan in Hulu Kelang are also expected to move forward this year.
“Depending on the readiness of the occupants, the state government is prepared to carry out redevelopment works.”
He said the project would involve a housing development on the existing site, with homes to be allocated to eligible occupants at affordable prices.
“MPAJ has been tasked with coordinating the census and identifying eligible residents in Kampung Fajar and Kampung Warisan.”
The state government allocated RM60mil for the redevelopment of the villages, involving construction of 1,000sq ft apartments priced at RM200,000 each.
MPAJ seeks to work with landowners to set up temporary depots where derelict vehicles can be stored before disposal.
On operational issues, Hasrolnizam said MPAJ would focus on two long-standing problems in the first half of 2026 – abandoned vehicles and unregulated small trader activity.
“One of the main challenges in dealing with abandoned vehicles quickly is the lack of space to store them.
“We want to work with landowners and developers to identify undeveloped land that can be used as temporary depots.
“We could use these areas as temporary storage facilities so that disposal can be carried out properly and quickly.”
On small traders, Hasrolnizam said MPAJ was not out to deny them economic opportunities, but instead aimed to impose clearer structures and rules.
“Our goal is to help this group have a source of income without affecting the surrounding environment.
“We are drafting a blueprint covering trader needs such as activity types, suitable locations, the number of traders and business regulations, with engagement sessions ongoing.
“The draft is expected to be ready by June.”
Aerial view of housing areas in Bukit Antarabangsa. MPAJ pledges stricter regulation on developments in hilly areas. — IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star
He added that MPAJ would continue working with agencies to roll out community and sports programmes, including car-free days, geopark events and competitions including football, rugby and mountain biking, as well as the Melawati Run.
The council will also carry on environmental sustainability programmes including community clean-ups, trash-to-cash initiatives and recycling contests.
Hasrolnizam said slope stabilisation and maintenance works would continue at high-risk locations based on the latest light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data.
“For new developments in hilly areas, developers must carry out slope-stability studies.
“Where stabilisation is required, work must be implemented and verified by relevant agencies through the state technical committee.”
MPS plans to reorganise hawkers in the municipality.
Separately, Selayang ratepayers can expect to see improved delivery information this year with their assessment bills sent via WhatsApp.
Starting in June, bills will be sent via the app, in addition to current e-mail and SMS platforms.
Selayang Municipal Council (MPS) will also carry out an exercise to whitelist unlicensed hawkers.
It is in the midst of drafting a strategic plan to reorganise small traders, who it categorised as “scattered”.
Feedback from 350 respondents on suitable places to run such businesses were collected following an engagement session about the Strategic Plan for the Management and Empowerment of Small Traders 2026-2030 last November.
MPS is encouraging hawkers to apply for business licences after the plan’s launch this year.
It is also upgrading two major geosites it manages.
Selayang Hot Spring and the Batu Arang former coalmine are undergoing renovations to enhance their potential as tourist attractions.
This is also in preparation for Selangor’s push for Unesco Global Geopark recognition for the Gombak-Hulu Langat Geopark.
The upgrade, estimated to cost RM5mil, is due for completion by August.
The project aims to integrate a “wellness tourism” concept by upgrading facilities, drainage system and landscaping.
