Residents of Taman Saikat in Ipoh are protesting against the construction of tourism and commercial activities at the base of the limestone hills behind their houses. The Residents Association chairman, Surindar Singh, stated that the Qing Xin Ling Leisure and Cultural Village, built near the limestone hills in 2015, has caused traffic congestion and safety concerns due to the large number of visitors. Despite these ongoing issues, new access roads, a cafe, and an eco-park are planned for the area.
Surindar expressed frustration that the residents have not been informed about these developments since their last meeting with the Ipoh City Council on January 11. He emphasized that the residents opposed any development at the limestone hills and claimed they had been left in the dark. Construction of the access road began a month ago but was temporarily halted after a police report was filed. However, a signboard announcing the project mysteriously appeared three days ago.
The residents, who have lived in the area for over 20 years, are concerned about the potential consequences of these projects due to the fragile nature of the limestone hills. They already face daily traffic congestion caused by the haphazard parking of visitors to the cultural village, and their children are unable to play freely in front of their houses due to speeding vehicles. Furthermore, the construction of the access road will disrupt a natural pond that serves as a retention pond during heavy rain.
Meor Razak Meor Abdul Rahman, a field officer from Sahabat Alam Malaysia, pointed out that the area where the construction is taking place, as well as the planned eco-park and cafe, is designated as a green zone under the Ipoh City Local Plan 2035. He also highlighted that the green area and forest are home to a protected species of gibbons.
The managing director of KF Realty Management Sdn Bhd, Cheng Swee Kiat, claimed to be unaware of any plans for a cafe or other developments at the foot of the hill. He mentioned that during the January 11 meeting, the mayor announced the construction of the access road, which would be jointly funded by the council and KF Realty Management. This road is intended to divert traffic away from Taman Saikat once it is completed.
The Ipoh City Council has promised to issue an official statement on July 24. Sandrea Ng Shy Ching, the state housing and local government committee chairman, explained that the construction of the road is a collaborative effort between the council and a private company to address the issues faced by Taman Saikat residents due to visitors of Qing Xin Ling. An engagement session with residents will be organized to provide information about the project.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
