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SHAH ALAM, 10 SEPTEMBER – By 2030, the Klang River is envisioned to be more than just a rehabilitated river, with plans to transform the surrounding areas into new economic zones encompassing business, tourism and recreational activities. According to Landasan Lumayan Sdn Bhd (LLSB), the implementing agency for the Selangor Maritime Gateway Economic Development Zone (ZPE-SMG), river-based economic activities are expected to generate new employment opportunities. LLSB said local communities would benefit from the development of the Klang River through improved housing, higher-quality public spaces, greater entrepreneurial opportunities and an enhanced quality of life. “The true measure of success is when we can demonstrate that environmental rehabilitation and economic growth can progress hand in hand — the river is restored, the economy grows and the people benefit,” LLSB said in a written response to Media Selangor. LLSB stated that the development of ZPE-SMG would create opportunities for new business sectors, including tourism, food and beverage, boat services, recreation and entrepreneurship. The agency also aims to ensure that development along the river delivers better-quality public spaces, recreational areas, community facilities and improved housing options. “From an environmental perspective, every development must progress in tandem with efforts to restore the Klang River ecosystem,” LLSB added. LLSB also views Mangrove Point Recreational Park as an environmental asset with significant potential to be developed into an ecotourism and environmental education destination. Through a strategic collaboration with KRU Entertainment Sdn Bhd, the agency is exploring the use of “edutainment” elements to communicate environmental conservation messages in a more creative and interactive manner. Mangrove Point will see improvements to its existing facilities while introducing new experiences, including animatronic elements, light shows, and river- and water-based activities. “This development also has the potential to create new economic opportunities and generate benefits for local communities through recreational, tourism and ecotourism activities,” LLSB said. The second phase of the Mangrove Point upgrading project is estimated to cost RM7.1 million, covering additional key facilities, internal infrastructure and new ecotourism and edutainment attractions. Upgrading works are being carried out in phases and are scheduled for completion in the fourth quarter of 2026, with more comprehensive operations expected to begin in the second quarter of 2027. For the development of Kampung Fajar, LLSB plans to revitalise the settlement by improving residents’ living standards and empowering the urban settler community through modern housing. The redevelopment will address issues related to unplanned settlements while improving the overall environment through integration with flood mitigation initiatives and the beautification of the Klang River. “This is to ensure that the benefits are not limited to housing improvements, but also contribute to a better river environment and a community that is more resilient to flood risks,” LLSB said. LLSB aims to ensure that development along the Klang River delivers benefits beyond physical improvements by creating better-planned settlements and safer living environments. Based on current plans, the Selangor State Government has allocated approximately RM60 million for the housing development project, which is also intended to address issues involving informal settlements. LLSB explained that the planning process began in 2025, including the preparation of development plans and the restructuring of the existing settlement. “Physical development works are targeted to commence in January 2027, subject to the necessary approvals, finalisation of the design and appointment of development partners,” the agency said. LLSB also described the ZPE-SMG project under the Second Selangor Plan (RS-2) as significant, as the Klang River rehabilitation agenda is being approached not solely from an environmental perspective but also as part of a broader sustainable economic development strategy. ZPE-SMG adopts an approach that integrates river rehabilitation with responsible economic development, recognising the river as a strategic asset with significant potential. “LLSB does not want development to come at the expense of the environment. Instead, we want to ensure that a healthier river becomes the foundation for more sustainable development,” the agency said. |
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