Kepong folk warn initiative will worsen traffic congestion
THE plan to instal 20 MyKiosk units along a slip road by the Middle Ring Road 2 (MRR2) in Kepong, Kuala Lumpur, is sparking safety fears.
Residents and motorists argue the initiative, designed to modernise roadside trading, will instead paralyse traffic and jeopardise lives.
Mechanic Chung Kok Keong, who uses the slip road near Taman Tasik Metropolitan Kepong to get to his workshop in Jinjang, said the kiosks would worsen illegal parking along the route.
“Motorists, including those driving heavy vehicles, like to park by the roadside before visiting eateries located in petrol stations along the road.”
He said visitors to the PPAM Metropolitan Kepong and another high-rise residential property next to it would occupy a lane when they stop for security checks.
“Placing MyKiosk units along the road would worsen the situation as more cars would park by the roadside to buy food.”
The gridlock had intensified since October 2024, Chung added, when the direct access to Persiaran Putra Bayu was closed, forcing motorists onto this narrow slip road.
While a Google Maps check showed the stretch should take one minute to traverse, Chung reported being stuck for 15 minutes during peak hours.
Launched in 2023, the MyKiosk initiative aims to provide traders with a safe and comfortable space to operate their businesses and to improve the image of roadside stalls.
Community activist Yee Poh Ping, representing concerned locals, urged Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to reconsider the move.
“We are not against hawkers making a living, but they must trade in suitable sites,” he added.
During a site visit on March 14, StarMetro found that one MyKiosk unit was already erected on the slip road, along with the cement foundations for other units.
“I was told the rest of the kiosks would be installed after Hari Raya Aidilfitri and the contractor will hand over the units to DBKL in early April,” Yee said.
DBKL had not responded to queries regarding the issue at press time.
