KUALA LUMPUR – A group of parliamentarians is urging Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to reconsider its decision to close its parks during the movement control order.
In a joint statement yesterday, nine MPs said DBKL’s decision is not in line with Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s message that “isolation for a long period of time can put stress on one’s mental health”.
“The people are allowed to leave their homes for recreation and sporting activities such as jogging and cycling.
“For KL residents, public parks are the most suitable, controlled and safe location for recreational activities that adhere to the standard operating procedures (SOPs) released by the National Security Council.
“In fact, all the parks are located near or next to housing areas.
“For the sake of safety and mental health, we urge DBKL to reconsider its decision and discuss with NSC to have strict SOPs to allow the parks to be used.”
The joint statement was signed by Tan Kok Wai (Cheras), Fahmi Fadzil (Lembah Pantai), Teresa Kok (Seputeh), Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad (Setiawangsa), Fong Kui Lun (Bukit Bintang), Datin Tan Yee Kew (Wangsa Maju), Hannah Yeoh (Segambut), Lim Lip Eng (Kepong) and P. Prabakaran (Batu).
In a statement on Facebook yesterday, DBKL said the affected parks are Taman Botani Perdana, Taman Awam Bukit Kiara, Taman Tasik Titiwangsa, Taman Tasik Manjalara and Taman Tasik Metropolitan Kepong. The closure includes facilities at these parks.
Under the NSC's SOPs, people are allowed to jog in groups of not more than two individuals, and can cycle alone.
DBKL had told The Vibes that the decision to close the parks was made as it is difficult for the authorities to ensure compliance with health SOPs. – The Vibes, January 14, 2021
