KKB polls: KKB folk say they want development without sacrificing nature

HULU SELANGOR: Nestled at the foot of the grand Titiwangsa Range and about an hour from the bustling national capital, Kuala Kubu Baru (KKB) is a beacon of tranquillity, its natural beauty casting a spell of calm on those who visit and those who call it home.

As the town becomes the centre of attention due to its upcoming by-election, with politicians promising its over 40,000 voters better jobs and infrastructure, it residents dream of a KKB that flourishes but keeps its verdant charm.

Their hope is for an energetic elected rep who nurtures their green sanctuary into a sustainable hub for future generations.

One such resident is 60-year-old businessman Kevin Lai, who hopes that KKB’s beauty is protected from industries that have sullied other towns.

“Within the greater Hulu Selangor district, we seek development that enlivens our town,” he said, adding that KKB had significantly transformed from its slow pace.

“Our town’s destiny is intertwined with pioneering industries, educational institutions, and the involvement of our youth in driving Hulu Selangor’s prosperity.

“KKB is a bastion of untouched beauty. Our developmental approach must prioritise our pristine environment; we must refuse any industry that risks polluting our cherished surroundings.

“The government should advance the pursuits of green technology, academia, and ecotourism, pivoting away from environmentally harmful industries such as paper production, copper smelting, and plastic recycling that are prevalent in Hulu Selangor,” he emphasised.

“We may be the last stronghold of such lush greenery in Selangor. To preserve it, we need sectors like engineering and high-tech industries that utilise the skills of our local workforce,” Lai said.

At 617 sq km, KKB is the largest of Selangor’s 56 state constituencies.

S. Megawa Subramaniam, 51, a grocery store owner, said KKB has evolved from relative obscurity to an ecotourism hub.

He pointed to the Sungai Chiling Waterfall as a prime example, as it has become a draw for picnickers and nature lovers, while the hill town’s windy roads are popular with cyclists.

These attractions have spurred the growth of local bed-and-breakfasts, cafes and restaurants.

“Our business is faring well, and the improvements to infrastructure have been considerable,” he said.

Asu Dollah, the 66-year-old village head of Kampung Tun Abdul Razak, acknowledged that life has improved for the Orang Asli community but highlighted persistent shortcomings in critical services such as electricity and street lighting.

“Our calls for electricity have gone unanswered, and while solar street lights have been installed within the village, our roads remain dark,” he said.

He said he hopes the newly-elected state assembly representative would prioritise roof repairs for the village, which is home to about 200 residents.

“It’s also essential to prioritise the education of our children and provide new homes,” he added.