Johor residents committees urged to use govt funds to create parks

ISKANDAR PUTERI: The state government wants more residents committees to use government funds to create parks and green spaces.

State Local Government, Science and Technology Committee chairman Tan Hong Pin said under the Housing and Local Government Ministry, residents committees could apply for RM5,000 through local councils to create parks.

“At the moment, the response is poor. We want to encourage more committees to apply for funds so that there will be more parks and green spaces,” said Tan after launching the Harvest Festival organised by Medini Iskandar Malaysia Sdn Bhd (MIM) in collaboration with JOGreen at the Edible Park here.

He advised them to be careful when selecting trees and other plants.

“Some trees and plants, especially those from other countries, are not suitable. Some might even damage the ecosystem,” said Tan.

He reminded those who wished to create urban farms on vacant land belonging to local councils to get permission first.

“I don’t think the local councils would have any issue with people using small plots of vacant land to grow edible plants as long as they seek permission first,” said Tan.

MIM managing director and chief executive officer Dr James Tee said the company would open another park in Medini City called Heritage Forest next year.

“The 2.8ha park will be the second park to be open here after the Edible Park. We plan to open 46 parks in Medini City,” he said.

Source: NST