MPAJ issues stop work order against developer
07/09/2007 The Malay Mail by By NURADZIMMAH DAIM
 

AMPANG Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) yesterday issued a stop-work order against a developer accused by residents of “jumping the gun” in clearing a plot of land in Taman Kelab Ukay.

MPAJ’s action came almost immediately after the area’s residents had spoken to The Malay Mail yesterday on the problem.

Residents alleged that the developer had begun clearing the 1.85 acre land even before the residents had a chance to attend a public hearing at MPAJ fixed for next week.

When contacted yesterday, MPAJ president Mohammad Yacob said a stop-work order was issued to the developer.

“We will meet the residents next week for a public hearing,” he said, declining further comment.

A resident, lecturer Syed Zulkifli Syed Nasir, 45, said he noticed the land-clearing work several days before, although he learnt of the project months ago.

“At that time, we saw a notice board erected by MPAJ inviting us to voice our objections on the proposed project.

“We wrote them a letter and they agreed to hold a meeting with us next Monday.

“However, we were disappointed to see trees cut even before we managed to voice our grouses to MPAJ. How can such a situation happen?” asked Syed Zulkifli, whose house in Jalan Kelab Ukay 5 is next to the land.

He said a petition signed by the residents has been handed to MPAJ.

Another resident, Dr Christine Saw, said as the land has a mechanical sewage pond, it is unsuitable for the project as it could affect future residents’ health.

“Our main fear is the landslides which have been occurring in the area,” she said.

Checks by The Malay Mail at the disputed site yesterday showed that shortly after MPAJ staff left after checking the area, several workers continued the land-clearing work.

When contacted, a spokesman for the developer, Lembah Langat Development, said the clearing works was a survey for a pump station.

“The work is meant to replace the abandoned oxidation pond. We have obtained approval from the Sewage Services Department for the pump station.

“We are not doing any more than we’re supposed to as the housing project has yet to be approved by MPAJ.

“Besides, the abandoned pond could be a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

“MPAJ has contacted us and we have clarified the matter.”