KL Car Free Morning draws 10,000

KUALA LUMPUR: The 6th edition of the Kuala Lumpur Car Free Morning (KLCFM) programme today saw some 10,000 people showing support to reduce carbon emission to 40% by 2020.
Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Ahmad Phesal Talib said the high number of people participating is a good sign that the programme is creating awareness among members of the public on the importance of a healthy environment.
"Driven by a go-green campaign, we are looking into new activities, including mass fitness exercises, apart from the normal cycling, walking and rollerblading," he said.
Ahmad Phesal said the 6th edition is also to celebrate the 40-year-old Sino-Malaysia relationship, which is part of the nation's efforts to enhance Malaysia and China ties.
"This is crucial as it will have an impact on our economy and tourism industry as tourists from China are the (main) visitors from East Asia," he told reporters.
Ahmad Phesal said apart from KLCFM, Kuala Lumpur City Hall also has plans to turn the city into an eco-friendly location.
"We are planning to initiate a plan of 'People Impact Assessment' in order to utilise spaces between buildings in the city and optimise it for pedestrians," he said.
"By doing so, we are hoping to reduce the number of cars entering the city," he added.
The mayor said it is important for city dwellers to find an alternative mode of transportation, such as cycling or walking, in order to reduce congestion in the city.
"If we get positive (feedback) from the public, we plan to improve the KLCFM programme, such as holding it twice a month," he said.
During the event, Ahmad Phesal joined participants in cycling along popular roads that were closed to motor vehicles from 7am to 9am.