Developer reaches out through the Net

What say you on the issue below?

DEVELOPER Sime Darby Property has decided to go online to get direct feedback from the public on the Subang Ria Park issue.

It has set up a website (www.tamansubangria.org/) and a Facebook page (www.facebook.com/pages/Taman-Subang-Ria/137600863695/) to explain its plans for the 29.39ha park, two months after it revealed the upgrading and development details.

Going online: Sime Darby decided to go electronic to source feedback from the public on its proposal to upgrade and develop the Subang Ria Park.

The website contains facts on the park, the RM20mil upgrade plans, a photo gallery and frequently asked questions.

The developer also expressed its earnest wish to achieve a win-win situation with the public benefiting from the upgrade of 74% of the park while the developer builds 250 apartments units and expands the Sime Darby Medical Centre on the remaining 26% of the park.

Among the facilities that will be upgraded or added include follies, dry swale, amphitheatre, car park and bicycle track.

The developer also appealed to the visitors to welcome the change, which “will only be in the form of additional and better facilities with green features” for healthy urban living in a secure, well-equipped environment.

While driving home the fact that the Subang Ria Park has been private property since 1988 with a 99-year leasehold title, the developer also announced the possibility of building a commercial theme park on the site should the current proposal be rejected.

In the website, concerned parties are given a channel to voice their opinion and suggestions pertaining to the upgrading proposal through the survey form, while those who want to share their points of view with the rest can type into the chat box.

Losing its glamour: The go-kart track is not in use anymore.

As of Sept 9, there are about 10 positive comments, most anonymous, on the proposal.

For instance, Sasi said: “I see no reason why we shouldn’t develop a tired-looking park into something very safe and conducive to the family. Everyone should think rationally and support this programme whole-heartedly.

“A great initiative by Sime Darby Property. Kudos to its pro-active approach in handling this project.”

Another message by Joe echoed Sasi’s view, saying, ”It has been years since I last went to the park. It’s sad looking at the current state of the park. I’d say, it’s a win-win plan for all.”

A few people also lashed out at the Subang Jaya Residents Association’s (SJRA) firm stand against the proposal, arguing that the association does not represent every one in the township.

Bad state: Various exercise stations at the Subang Ria Park are abandoned.

“I am surprised there are people, associations or isolated community leaders who claim they speak for the majority of Subang Jaya residents. I used to take my wife and children to the park but I stopped because the place is dirty and unsafe!

“I don’t understand why we should maintain the status quo. We should find a way to optimise the space for the community and give the necessary dues back to the developer.

“We need a real park, not a half-discarded playground, and we should not let rabble rousers hijack a decent plan that benefits all,” CT Chin said.

Eksk, on the other hand, had a different opinion: “If you really want to be a responsible developer, why didn’t you maintain the park all these years? Residents are not stupid to fall for your tricks.”

Over at the park’s Facebook page, which has secured 138 fans so far, Rajesh Talwar strongly supported the proposal for a beautifully landscaped and well-maintained urban recreational spot.

“I’m annoyed that there’s this small group of naysayers going around and claiming to represent me! I’ve been living in SS12 for more than three years now and, to the best of my knowledge, not once has anyone from this group visited my neighbourhood or approached me to seek my support.

“I truly believe what Sime Darby intends to do will increase the value of the properties here.

“Truth be told, I can’t wait for the new proposed project to be launched at the Subing Ria Park, as I even see myself as a potential investor,” he said.