Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) is looking at expanding its car-free day programme to more neighbourhoods.
“We normally hold it in Pandan Indah but this time we wanted to bring the programme closer to residents,” MPAJ deputy president Hasrolnizam Shaari said of the latest edition held at Laman Rekreasi Tasik Tambahan in conjunction with World Environment Day.
“We are looking at other locations in future such as Bukit Indah, Melawati and Keramat.”
Hasrolnizam said the programme had been organised for more than six years now but activities were limited during the Covid-19 pandemic.
It was restarted last year and is now being held every three to four months.
He said the car-free day promoted a healthy lifestyle, greater use of public recreational spaces and reduced motor vehicle use.
Over 1,000 participants joined the health, environmental and sports activities including a fun walk by Hospital Ampang.
Community groups took part in plogging around the park, while an Ampang Kitar Race involving some 200 participants was held with checkpoint challenges based on recycling, waste management, public health and environmental awareness.
Hasrolnizam said some 450 tonnes of waste is generated daily in Ampang Jaya, and activities like Ampang Kitar Race encouraged residents to recycle and improve their waste habits.
He said recyclable materials such as used cooking oil, paper and cardboard can be sent to designated collection centres where residents could receive incentives to offset their assessment tax.
MPAJ also launched its “MPAJ Kasih: Hidangan Berkhasiat di Sekolah” programme providing free breakfast in selected schools.
Hasrolnizam said the initiative began on May 12 and involved collaboration between MPAJ, schools, local communities and non-governmental organisations.
Under the programme, at least 50 pupils will receive breakfast during each session.
“So far, we have carried out the programme at three schools and it will continue at other schools in stages,” he said.
The car-free day was launched by senior political advisor to the Prime Minister, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, who said environmental sustainability was becoming increasingly important in attracting investment.
“Malaysia has great potential to become a hub for green investment and sustainable technologies in the region.
“Programmes such as these help build a community that is more aware of environmental sustainability and sustainable development,” he said.
The event also featured football, sepak takraw and netball competitions.
MPAJ hopes these tournaments will help identify local talent that could be honed through coaching and training programmes.
Separately, Hasrolnizam invited students to participate in the Selangor Education Convention happening today and tomorrow.
The event at MPAJ Convention Centre in Taman Melawati runs from 9am to 4pm and is free.
Highlights include seminars, talks, leadership activities and talent development programmes.
