KLANG: Amid the grand celebration marking 133 years of local governance in Klang, its municipal council president Noraini Roslan announced plans to redefine its future as it journeys towards attaining full-fledged city status on Nov 23.
Noraini said the Klang Municipal Council (MPK) is ready for the historic declaration, adding: “Essential services, particularly public cleanliness, are being elevated to meet the standards expected of a city.
“The Engineering Department is actively managing extensive landscaping and beautification projects, in addition to critical infrastructural improvements and the creation of new public facilities.
“The Communication and Corporate Department is actively fostering community engagement by orchestrating an exciting competition to design a brand new city logo and flag for Klang’s imminent elevation to city status.”
Noraini added that Klang’s new city logo and flag will represent its distinct character and values, providing a visual depiction of its identity and goals.
She said it will symbolise the journey of growth and progress that has led to this significant milestone.
“These initiatives are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to showcasing MPK’s preparedness as it eagerly anticipates the transition to cityhood.”
Noraini also said Klang is brimming with development potential, and MPK’s mission is to provide the best services to its residents without leaving any segment behind.
Emphasising the importance of shared responsibility, in which Klang residents must also play a significant role in achieving city status, she said continuously committing to delivering exceptional services after attaining it is paramount.
“We cannot sit on our laurels once we have attained city status. The work must continue and we must develop a city that meets the aspirations of its dwellers.
“In MPK’s vision, a key focus to achieving this lies in economic development and addressing the needs of the population regarding urban planning, transportation and environmental sustainability.
“All of these are aimed at improving the quality of life in Klang so that the people live in a city that meets their needs.”
In stressing the significance of Klang’s journey to achieving its full potential, Noraini underscored the pivotal roles played by development projects and the well-being of its population.
“Our combined emphasis on the well-being of Klang residents and infrastructure embodies the inclusive approach that is driving its transformation into a prosperous and dynamic city.
“MPK has integrated these aspects into its ‘Action Plan towards City status’ move, which involved several committees that are dedicated to various areas of city development.”
They include city design, infrastructure, public facilities, cleanliness, preparation of programmes and even publicity.
“These committees meet monthly, and their proposals are presented at our full council meetings, at which the head of the Klang district department is also present,” Noraini said.
She reiterated that the journey to becoming a city is not solely MPK’s responsibility but requires collaboration from all parties, including departments, agencies and the community to make Klang a “city of dreams”.
On Klang’s cleanliness aspects, Noraini said they are directly related to the tourism industry and that keeping clean is a priority, particularly for a city that is rapidly growing in popularity.
“Klang residents need to understand their role in maintaining cleanliness and the importance of waste management and recycling.
“MPK has conducted various cleanliness programmes in the community, such as awareness campaigns and meetings with contractors for solid waste management, just to ensure a clean and attractive environment.
“This emphasis underlines Klang’s unwavering commitment to fostering community involvement and nurturing a sense of shared responsibility among its residents,” she said.
In regard to the future of tourism in Klang, Tourism Selangor Sdn Bhd emphasises that as Klang strides towards attaining city status, it is focusing on urban development and preserving its invaluable historical legacy and vibrant cultural heritage.
“Klang aspires to become the first ‘Royal City’ in Malaysia and aims for recognition from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) as a Royal Heritage City on the global stage.
“MPK actively engages in tracking Klang’s history and heritage through initiatives like the ‘Royal Klang Town Heritage Walk’, which features 11 prominent tourist sites, and showcases the icons of its rich heritage.
“These locations, which include the Royal Gallery Sultan Abdul Aziz, Chartered Bank Building and the Royal Klang Club, form a part of Klang’s heritage journey.”
Noraini also said Klang’s journey towards city status is a testament to its growth and development potential.
“With our strong commitment to preserving its heritage, enhancing cleanliness and involving the community, we do not doubt that Klang is poised to become a vibrant and thriving city that offers a blend of historical charm and modern progress.
“As Klang embarks on this exciting transformation, it is set to be a place where residents and visitors can take pride in its rich history and promising future,” she said.
