RM130,000 facility in SS2 offers shelter and amenities
A NEW rest hub in SS2, Petaling Jaya in Selangor, is giving p-hailing riders a dedicated space to take a break, recharge their phones and escape the elements between jobs.
The state government initiative known as “Tempat Elok Dikhaskan Untuk Hentian” (Teduh), provides facilities such as phone-charging points, prayer rooms and motorcycle parking bays.
The hub site, along Jalan SS2/61, was identified by Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) for its strategic location near eateries and commercial areas.
For single mother Nurasma Omar, 36, Teduh@MBPJ offers a welcome respite as she works about 12 hours a day.
Nurasma, who left her managerial position at a fast-food restaurant to become a delivery rider in 2021, said the flexibility of gig work allowed her to earn an income while raising her daughter.
“I like this space as it gives me a chance to rest and charge my phone,” she said.
“I would welcome a more sheltered space for us to park our motorcycles too, while taking a break during the rain.”
All 12 local councils in Selangor now have at least one such rest area each, said state Islamic affairs and innovation, culture and digital economy committee chairman Dr Mohammad Fahmi Ngah.
He said the state allocated RM30,000 to each local council for the facilities, with MBPJ contributing an additional RM103,000 to upgrade its rest area with more amenities.
Mohammad Fahmi said feedback from p-hailing riders also helped shape the facilities.
“They gave me valuable input, such as the need for clean water to conduct prayers at these rest areas.
“They told me rainwater harvesting is good for the environment, but the water could be contaminated with bird droppings, which is not suitable for prayer,” he said during the launch of the hub.
Also present were Selangor Deputy State Secretary (Management) Datuk Amirul Azizan Abd Rahim and Petaling Jaya mayor Datuk Mohd Yazid Sairi.
Mohammad Fahmi credited Mohd Yazid with initiating the rest-area concept during his tenure as Selayang Municipal Council president.
Meanwhile, Mohd Yazid said more locations would be identified for MBPJ to develop additional rest hubs.
MBPJ councillor Loh Y Lun said riders previously had to rest at playgrounds, neighbourhood gazebos and parks.
“They deserve a better space to rest.
He said some p-hailing companies had shown interest in improving these spaces, adding that they should approach the respective councils to offer assistance.
For rider Nik Khairul Abdullah, 32, who works about 15 hours a day to maximise his income, the rest area was a much-needed place to take a break.
“My wife and children are in my village in Terengganu.
“I have to work hard in the city so that I can give them a better life.
“I used to be a wedding photographer, but I lost my job during the (Covid-19) pandemic.
“Being a rider has helped me earn a living.
“I am grateful for this rest area and wish there was space for us to lie down and take a short nap,” he added.
Another rider Awal Nazaubir, 34, hopes more mobile charging points can be provided.
Among amenities at Teduh@MBPJ are a solar panel system, rainwater harvesting facilities, phone-charging points, closed-circuit TV cameras, fans, LED lights and 15 motorcycle parking bays, while nearby are public toilets and prayer rooms.
