KLANG - The commencement of operations on the Light Rail Transit 3 (LRT3) line, officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Sunday, has been described as a new catalyst for public transportation that will bring significant benefits to residents in Klang and Shah Alam. Klang Mayor Datuk Abd Hamid Hussain said the new rail line is expected to encourage more residents to shift from private vehicles to public transportation, thereby helping to reduce traffic congestion. He noted that several LRT3 stations within the administrative area of the Royal City Council of Klang (MBDK) will provide greater convenience to the public, including Bandar Baru Klang, Pasar Klang, Jalan Meru, Jalan Kota, Taman Selatan, Sri Andalas, Klang Jaya and Bandar Bukit Tinggi. Also present were Deputy Klang Mayor Mohd Zary Affendi Mohd Arif and MBDK Councillor Mohd Rayme Abdul Rahman. Abd Hamid said MBDK is currently focusing on improving surrounding infrastructure to ensure safer and more comfortable pedestrian access to LRT stations. According to him, the local authority will gather feedback from commuters after operations commence to identify any shortcomings that require further improvements. “If there are poorly lit areas, we will enhance the lighting. If pedestrian walkways need upgrading, we will work closely with Prasarana to ensure users can walk safely without the risk of accidents or disruptions,” he said. He acknowledged that parking availability may pose a challenge during the initial phase of operations but expressed confidence that feeder bus services and e-hailing options would help reduce reliance on station parking facilities. “We hope the public will make full use of feeder buses and e-hailing services. If everyone drives to the stations, parking capacity will inevitably be insufficient,” he added. In a separate development, Abd Hamid said MBDK is currently at its highest level of readiness for the 22nd Selangor Malaysia Games (SUKMA) 2026, which will be held from 15 to 24 August. He said MBDK has allocated approximately RM12 million to upgrade sports facilities under its management, including the Pandamaran Hockey Stadium, Sultan Sulaiman Stadium, the Bayuemas Lawn Bowls Centre and Bukit Raja Indoor Hall. “Upgrading works at the Pandamaran Hockey Stadium have been fully completed and only final touch-ups remain. Similarly, the rugby field at Sultan Sulaiman Stadium has been completed, while several supporting facilities such as restrooms are currently being finalised,” he said. Meanwhile, Mohd Rayme said Taman Rakyat Klang continues to be one of the community’s preferred recreational destinations due to its unique combination of leisure activities and natural surroundings. He noted that visitors can not only enjoy jogging but also hiking in a lush green environment, while sampling a variety of popular food offerings that have become attractions in the area. “In addition to Taman Rakyat, we also have a food truck zone at Laman Seni Klang every Friday to Sunday. “Klang residents do not need to travel far for recreation, as there are many attractive locations throughout the district that are ideal for family outings,” he said. |