Federal Territories Council focuses on resolving Kuala Lumpur’s density issues
KUALA LUMPUR: The Federal Territories Council, which convened for the third time this year, discussed 18 emerging issues, with a primary focus on the well-being and harmony of Kuala Lumpur’s residents.
According to the Wilayahku portal, Dr. Zaliha Mustafa, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories), stated that one of the main issues raised was the increasing population density.
Zaliha added that other issues discussed included the constraints on public facilities, particularly schools, which may struggle to accommodate Kuala Lumpur’s growing population in the future.
She mentioned that in line with the 2040 Structure Plan (PSKL 2040), the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) will hold a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) from September 11 to 13, 2024.
“(The session) aims to draft Guidelines for Community Facility Planning towards Integrated and Coordinated Development in Kuala Lumpur, involving various agencies to present related issues and suggestions.
“These guidelines are crucial to ensure that public facilities such as schools, clinics, and parks align with the development and population growth in the city,” she said in a statement.
Zaliha further explained that once the guidelines are completed, all new developments will need to comply with stricter and more integrated guidelines.
She emphasized that this must be done without disregarding the needs and interests of the local residents.
Meanwhile, Zaliha noted that the meeting also addressed the allocation from DBKL to Members of Parliament for small projects benefiting the public.
For 2024, she said each DBKL branch office has received allocations ranging from RM300,000 to RM500,000.
“This funding is for implementing various social development activities and upgrading public infrastructure such as community halls, roads, drainage systems, and parks around Kuala Lumpur.
“Emphasis is also placed on improving the methods of allocation to make them more strategic and effective,” she said.
Zaliha stated that DBKL is responsible for ensuring that every allocation is used optimally.
She added that regular audit reports and monitoring should be carried out by DBKL to prevent wastage and ensure the effectiveness of project implementation.
“As a follow-up, DBKL is asked to expedite the implementation of the discussed proposals and report progress to me periodically.
“Close cooperation and prompt action from all parties are key to ensuring that Kuala Lumpur continues to develop as a prosperous, sustainable, and harmonious city for its residents,” she said.