Home Civil Society Voices What’s going on at the Ipoh Padang?

What’s going on at the Ipoh Padang?

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Ronald Benjamin urges the state government to halt the Ipoh Padang project until the local community is consulted.

In my journey to Geneva, Switzerland I was amazed at how its city authorities had paid great attention to its iconic symbols. For example, the parks are clean and people even sleep in these parks.

The Geneva lake is so crystal clear one can see the fish beneath. There is plenty of space for jogging and walking.

The historical sites, are preserved and those who visit have the opportunity to read historical content that is informative.

These examples illustrate the importance of preserving a nation’s historical heritage which has unique aesthetic value to boost tourism and ultimately help the socioeconomic development of the local people.

It is sad that one could say the opposite about Ipoh, where rivers are polluted with rubbish. Now, steel poles and fences at Ipoh Padang mar its manicured lawns and spark bewilderment among residents nearby. It has been reported that the contractor who erected the fence and poles did not display a signboard to offer details of the project.
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It has been noticed there were no signs of construction being done by the Ipoh City Council, and this has spawned suspicion that the local government had failed to obtain feedback from residents before proceeding with the project.

This clearly violates UN agenda 21 on sustainable development goals, which says that the local communities should be engaged for consensus on issues affecting them.

Ipoh Padang is a well-known recreational area, and I go there frequently for brisk walks and to enjoy natuer and its beauty. Let’s take pride in our heritage and not violate it for commercial interests.

The Association for Community and Dialogue urges the state government to halt the Ipoh Padang project until the local community is consulted. There is need for transparency and accountability.

The Perak menteri besar and the Ipoh mayor should take heed of local sentiments and preserve the historical heritage of Ipoh Padang.

One wonders what is happening to Ipoh Padang. [For more details of the project, see this report]

Source: themalaysianinsight.com

The views expressed in Aliran's media statements and the NGO statements we have endorsed reflect Aliran's official stand. Views and opinions expressed in other pieces published here do not necessarily reflect Aliran's official position.

AGENDA RAKYAT - Lima perkara utama
  1. Tegakkan maruah serta kualiti kehidupan rakyat
  2. Galakkan pembangunan saksama, lestari serta tangani krisis alam sekitar
  3. Raikan kerencaman dan keterangkuman
  4. Selamatkan demokrasi dan angkatkan keluhuran undang-undang
  5. Lawan rasuah dan kronisme
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