The Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) has been urged to strengthen its existing planning approval requirements to ensure open spaces in new residential developments are equipped with quality recreational facilities from the outset, instead of remaining underutilised for years.
State Exco for Trade and Community Unity, Goh Choon Aik, said developers are currently only required to allocate 10% of the development land for open spaces and provide basic playground facilities. He proposed that MBSP incorporate clearer conditions under its Planning Permission (KM) approvals to require more comprehensive amenities.
These could include jogging tracks, exercise stations, aerobics plazas and underground drainage systems, allowing open spaces to enhance residents’ quality of life while preventing water ponding after heavy rain.
According to Goh, if technical constraints prevent developers from setting aside the full 10% of land, the shortfall should be compensated through the provision of more complete recreational facilities.
He made the remarks during the launch of the upgraded open space at Taman Mutiara Teratai in Bukit Tambun on 24 June.
The completed project features a jogging track, pedestrian walkways, underground drainage, children’s playground, outdoor fitness equipment, plaza, benches, waste bins, safety signboards and additional landscaping.
Goh, who is also the Bukit Tambun assemblyman, said the high-quality upgrade carried out by MBSP should serve as a benchmark for future residential developments.
Earlier, MBSP Mayor Datuk Baderul Amin Abdul Hamid said the local authority spent approximately RM176,006 to upgrade the 3,000-square-metre open space with various recreational facilities.
He added that MBSP remains committed to enhancing open spaces in existing residential areas in the future, subject to additional allocations or stronger financial resources.
The proposal aims to ensure residents in new townships can enjoy well-planned and functional recreational spaces without having to wait for future public funding.