 |
KLANG, 20 JUNE: Efforts to preserve and restore rivers are not solely the responsibility of local authorities (PBT), but require the cooperation of all parties to ensure environmental sustainability. The Mayor of Klang said rivers are valuable assets that serve as water sources and habitats for aquatic life, while also supporting economic activities, recreation, and the well-being of the community. However, Dato’ Abdul Hamid Hussain stressed that rapid urban development, population growth, and irresponsible attitudes among certain members of the public have placed increasing pressure on river ecosystems. “However, this growth has brought negative impacts on the environment, such as river pollution and flooding if not properly managed. “Pollution does not only occur along the riverbanks, but also within the river itself throughout its flow,” he said during his speech at the officiating ceremony of the Love Klang River Programme in Kapar town today. The programme, organised by Royal City Council of Klang (MBDK), is a continuous initiative aimed at raising environmental awareness and strengthening community involvement towards the sustainability of the Klang River. An estimated 300 participants took part in the programme, including volunteers from Media Selangor Sdn Bhd (MSSB), MBDK councillors, representatives from educational institutions, residents’ associations, and the local community. Meanwhile, Abdul Hamid said the river cleaning programme has been carried out since 2024 and is one of the ongoing initiatives under the MBDK Klang River Love Action Plan 2035. He added that the initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with MBDK becoming the first local authority to develop a dedicated action plan for river restoration. “Therefore, we sincerely hope that other local authorities will also develop riverfront development plans as an initial step towards the clean-up and restoration of the Klang River,” he said. The plan was previously awarded first place in the Malaysia Scroll of Honour Award 2025 under the Outstanding Organisation in Urban Crisis Response category. For the record, the Klang River stretches 120 kilometres, covering areas including Kuala Lumpur, Gombak, Ampang, Petaling Jaya, Shah Alam, and ending in Klang. |
 |
