FACTORY owners in Klang’s Sungai Kapar Indah (SKI) Hi-Tech Industrial area are concerned about worsening road conditions caused by movement of cement mixers to and from a concrete batching plant.
Workers who travel along Persiaran Sungai Kapar Indah and Jalan SKI 4/KU7 have voiced dissatisfaction over the deteriorating condition of roads within the industrial zone.
Most businessmen said fixing the roads was not merely for convenience but would be a critical investment for Klang’s economic future.
Businessman Mok Soon Chet told StarMetro that worsening road condition has become a persistent problem that affected transportation efficiency.
There were many manufacturing facilities, furniture-making companies and firms that recondition cars from abroad in the area, all depending heavily on reliable transportation infrastructure, he added.
Mok and several factory owners along Jalan SKI 4/KU7 said the deteriorating roads were causing delays in the movement of goods and disrupting supply chain operations.
“Vehicles are often forced to reduce speed to navigate damaged sections of road, resulting in longer travel times and decreased efficiency,” he said.
“Safety is another major concern raised by factory operators and workers.
“Poor road conditions increase the risk of accidents, particularly for heavy vehicles carrying large loads.”
Mok added that during intense rains, potholes could be filled with water, making detection and avoidance difficult.
“Motorcyclists and employees commuting to work are especially vulnerable to accidents caused by damaged road surfaces.
“Owners of the businesses fear that without immediate intervention, the likelihood of serious injuries and property damage may continue to rise.”
These additional costs, he said, placed a burden on companies already facing challenges such as rising production expenses.
Industrial areas played a crucial role in supporting economic growth, generating employment opportunities and attracting investment, added Mok.
“Efficient road networks facilitate smoother logistics operations, reduce costs and create a more attractive environment for potential investors,” he said.
Mok also said continued neglect of infrastructure would discourage future investments and undermine the area’s reputation as an industrial hub.
Factory manager Muhammad Amin said cement mixers also travelled daily through Persiaran Sungai Kapar Indah into Jalan SKI 4/KU7 to transport cement to construction sites.
“Over a year, the roads have suffered wear and tear, leaving large, deep potholes,” he said.
Factory supervisor Faizul Merican said the financial impact of poor road conditions extended beyond transportation costs.
“Our trucks are exposed to damaged roads that accelerate wear and tear on the vehicles and lead to higher maintenance and repair expenses.”
Faizul added that business owners reported instances of damaged tyres and suspension systems caused by the deep potholes.
Eya Azmi, who worked at the industrial area, lodged a complaint on April 16, with two follow-ups to Klang Royal City Council (MBDK) to prioritise infrastructure upgrades in the industrial area.
MBDK Engineering Department director Mohd Zaidi Zainal said investigations confirmed that the road surface had deteriorated and contained several potholes.
“The department has notified the annual road maintenance contractor to undertake necessary repair works “ he said, adding that repairs would be carried out in two weeks.
