Cleaning up to keep dengue at bay

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CONCERNED over the rising number of dengue cases, the residents of Pandan Glades in Ampang took part in a clean-up campaign recently.

About 40 residents took part in the event to clean the area together with Ampang Jaya municipal councillor Cheong Chye Wah.

Cheong said six gotong-royong campaigns had been held including in Maju Jaya, Cheras Indah and Pandan Perdana this year.

Working together: The residents cleaning up the drain in the area.

She said there had been dengue cases in Cheras Indah and the residents and council were worried over the situation.

“I think it boils down to attitude when it comes to keeping the surrounding areas clean. People always expect the council to do all the job but residents have to play a part, too.

“This is why we encourage such campaigns by the residents’ associations as they get the community together and create awareness.

“You can see rubbish everywhere. So we need people to stop being ignorant about this matter,” she said.

She added that since the takeover of garbage and maintenance by the Ampang Jaya Municipal Council, the contractors had been more efficient and the surroundings were cleaner.

Pandan Glades residents association chairman S.Y. Soo said they had held a few gotong-royong sessions to keep the area clean.

“This kind of event will help get the message out and boost community spirit. Garbage collection is more regular now after the takeover,” he said.