ANJUNG Kelana, a facility created to address the issue of homelessness and control the spread of Covid-19, has been closed down.
The transit center, located in Taman Desa, Kuala Lumpur, was opened on February 28, 2021, during the second movement control order period.
The project was initiated by the Federal Territories Ministry, led by Tan Sri Annuar Musa, and managed by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and the National Welfare Foundation.
Its primary objective was to provide temporary housing for the homeless population in the capital city, helping to rehabilitate and improve their lives while protecting them from potential infections on the streets.
At its peak, the center housed 70 individuals, but by mid-2022, the number had decreased to 19.
During a recent visit by StarMetro, a security guard confirmed that Anjung Kelana ceased operations in May.
The vicinity of the building appeared neglected, with overgrown grass and rubbish piled up in front.
The plot opposite Anjung Kelana, which used to be planted with a variety of vegetables, is now barren.
The land opposite the center, owned by Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB), was previously utilized by residents to learn farming techniques, but now remains vacant.
During a previous visit in 2022, the land was thriving with various crops, including corn, which were sold to the local community.
A number of residents praised the initiative, stating that it gave them an opportunity to learn farming skills and improve their lives.
According to a statement from DBKL Corporate Communications Unit, Anjung Kelana was closed down on May 1.
All former residents have been relocated to Anjung Kembara, a homeless center in Medan Tuanku, and the Chow Kit community learning center, both of which function as food distribution and self-development centers.
A portion of the land where Anjung Kelana is situated is now being used for urban farming in collaboration with the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Association for the Homeless and Needy.
The ownership of the shelter’s land belongs to DBKL and was previously the site of Desa Water Park.
However, the closure of the shelter has raised concerns among some Taman Desa residents, who fear potential development plans for the area.
StarMetro’s report on the centre on March 30, 2021.
“I hope that there are no plans to develop the land here,” expressed Alice Chee, a resident of a nearby condominium. She added, “This area is congested. I hope they will build a park instead.”
The chairman of the Taman Desa Residents Association (TDRA), Wong Chan Choy, stated that he has not been informed of any development plans for the area.
However, the association had a meeting with DBKL a few months ago to discuss the potential use of the TNB land for farming purposes.
“We want to utilize the land to promote farming and healthier lifestyles among residents,” Wong explained. “We have written to TNB, the land office, and DBKL, but we have yet to receive a response.”
Credit: The Star : Metro Feed
