By Danial Dzulkifly
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 14 – Klang MP V. Ganabatirau has called upon the government to accelerate the implementation of critical infrastructure projects in his constituency, amid increasing demand for adequate public facilities.
With a massive population of nearly half a million residents and 210,000 voters, the DAP said Klang presents unique demands and challenges that require urgent solutions.
Among other things, Ganabatirau expressed his concern that the constructions of the Kapar Hospital and several schools in Kota Kemuning and Bukit Raja have yet to commence despite obtaining federal approval.
“The Kapar Hospital was slated for completion by 2026, but as of now, there has been no visible progress on the ground,” he said at the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) Mid-Term Review in Parliament today.
“The same situation applies to the establishment of new schools in Klang, a matter of significant concern. For instance, the constructions of SMK Kota Kemuning 2 and other schools in Bukit Raja have not commenced either.”
Similarly, Ganabatirau noted various flood mitigation initiatives in Klang have yet to see major progress.
“Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has allocated around RM22 billion for flood mitigation projects nationwide under the 12MP, with RM1 billion designated for Selangor alone.
“However, I have not witnessed the initiation of these crucial projects in Klang.”
On a separate matter, Ganabatirau commended the government, specifically the Special Task Force on Agency Reform (Star), for reducing overcrowding in the emergency department at Hospital Tengku Ampuan Rahimah Hospital.
A pilot project initiated by the task force has seen the Hospital Tengku Ampuan Rahimah Hospital emergency department green zone (non-emergency) operations relocated to the Bandar Botanic Health Clinic during non-operational hours, which has contributed to a massive drop in patient congestion.
Meanwhile, Ganabatirau urged the government to reconsider the allocation process for constituency funding, proposing that the amount be adjusted based on the population size.
Currently, MPs are given equal funding, regardless of the population.
“Klang is an extensive and densely populated area, similar to the likes of Bangi, which boasts around 300,000 voters. While I respect other parliamentary seats, which may be larger in geographical size, some of their populations are below 50,000.”
“Even with the funds we currently receive, it falls short of adequately serving our vast constituency. It is imperative that we receive allocations that are proportionate to our constituents’ needs,’’ he said, adding that there is a pressing need for a redelineation of parliamentary constituencies.
