LETTERS: The cabinet's decision to direct Kuala Lumpur City Hall to preserve Taman Rimba Kiara as a green space as it builds permanent housing for 98 longhouse families is commendable.
This will ensure Bukit Kiara remains an open space for public enjoyment.
Taman Rimba Kiara, situated at the base of Bukit Kiara, is a vital green lung in the city.
Bukit Kiara's strategic location in the heart of Kuala Lumpur makes it an attractive target for commercial development.
For now, Bukit Kiara is safe, but City Hall's role will be crucial in fortifying the decision. It must show its commitment to the public's wishes.
It is essential that City Hall incorporate the decision into the Kuala Lumpur Local Plan 2040, ensuring that Taman Rimba Kiara will remain a public park and green space.
City Hall must issue a strongly worded statement to private developers, making it clear that any new development in the vicinity of Bukit Kiara will be rejected outright.
For too long, we have taken our precious green spaces like Bukit Kiara and Taman Rimba Kiara for granted.
These areas are not just patches of greenery. They are vital to the wellbeing of our community, offering spaces for recreation, relaxation and exercise.
If more people engage in outdoor activities, we can foster a healthier population and reduce the strain on our overstretched health and medical facilities.
The "Save Taman Rimba Kiara" movement has shown what collective action can achieve. The Federal Court ruling to let Taman Rimba Kiara remain a green lung is a testament to the power of community and perseverance.
As a social activist, I urge all stakeholders, especially City Hall, to prioritise the preservation of our green spaces. It is incumbent upon us to protect these precious areas for future generations.
DR POLA SINGH
Co-founder, Friends of Bukit Kiara
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times