Petaling Jaya was developed as a bedroom town for Kuala Lumpur 50 years ago. The planners then, have never thought of PJ developed so rapidly becoming a self-sustainable township by itself, let alone to proclaim as a City. The concept of neighbourhood was clearly translated into the planning principle on the ground. Houses are the dominant land use and served by row of neighbourhood shops. For long and even presently, many people are here in PJ for living in a peaceful and quiet environment. This scenario changed with the development of Subang Jaya, Shah Alam or even Kota Damansara and other areas at the fringe of PJ. These development brought in traffic and in-flow of people into PJ. Undoubtedly, development pressure built up against the planned set up for PJ.
Presently, PJ offers great deal for businesses looking for better place. The high price of properties and traffic congestion in KL is pushing more and more businesses to establish here in PJ, even for the people who is looking for a quiet place to live. The influx of traffic and people requires the construction of commercial space and residential units in the form of high rise and high density. The high intensity of activities brought in extra load to the existing infrastructure and living environment. While the changes is inevitable, the local felt uneasy as they have now to compete for the road space, the facilities, the services, the nature and even the car park. Community conflict started and to become a subject for contest continually.
So, the question now is whether development in PJ has reached the saturated point or not? Or perhaps we have misunderstood the definition about development? Shouldn't we talk about social and environmental development rather than the physical and economic development alone?
Is development only confined to the physical element, the high rise, the inflow of people and visitors and with that the need for more space? Or, are we talking about quality development and encourage the value-added development that will bring in high return on quality of life? For example, the building of theatre, art gallery, iconic structures with historical and aesthetic value, urban park and others.
We are in the situation of Catch 22. Some claimed that without development, no socio-economic development and quality services can be carried out by MBPJ. However, some argued that quality services can be provided by improving on efficiency and effectiveness even without new development. The argument is inconclusive. Perhaps sustainable development principles should be applied scientifically and systematically. Accepted methodologies rather than perception only should be used for development planning analysis.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Human Capital
The November 2008 Monthly Quality Assembly for MBPJ saw the Department of Management Services launched the Campaign of Human Capital: Quality and Not Liability. The phrase is well said and structured. It is a wake up call to all employees after being told that the excellence service ranking of MBPJ amongst fellow local authorities in Selangor is dropping. The Campaign relates the work quality and service as a God alike action. It is a commitment to our God. It relates to one's integrity, sincerity, passion, loving, caring, true self and etc. As the success is related to individuals believe and value for work ethic, leadership by example from the top management can be a contributing factor.
Human capital is the asset to any organisation. The asset is the pillar to determine how good an organisation to perform and to serve their stakeholders. Some said "garbage in, garbage out" referring to the processing in computer. Similarly to the organisation, it is what you will get is depending on what you are giving. Logically, when we smile at someone, reciprocally we will receive a smile from the opponent and when we work hard and wholeheartedly for our clients, they will response with a Big thank you. This is the law of nature.
The question is how to recruit good staff force and importantly to sustain the eagerness and commitment of the new recruits until the last day of their service with MBPJ? Some believe on the incentives and penalties system. By rewarding someone, he/she will be motivated to perform better. Similarly, penalty will prevent someone from committing an error again and again. This system is effective provided that the organisation can innovate the system from time to time as people can be bored and greedy for more over time.
Perhaps inculcating a norm and value amongst staffs for working with sincere and truly should be a step forward. The staffs have to realise that earning the right way through right work ethic and attitude is the only right thing to do, and a minimum that request by MBPJ. For ensuring that the system is workable, a mechanism of monitoring, check and balance should also be institutionalised. Get other stakeholders such as Councillors and other accredited agencies or even the community members to evaluate the performance of individual, departments and MBPJ.
We have to work as a team or else the ranking of MBPJ might not be able to improve next year.
Human capital is the asset to any organisation. The asset is the pillar to determine how good an organisation to perform and to serve their stakeholders. Some said "garbage in, garbage out" referring to the processing in computer. Similarly to the organisation, it is what you will get is depending on what you are giving. Logically, when we smile at someone, reciprocally we will receive a smile from the opponent and when we work hard and wholeheartedly for our clients, they will response with a Big thank you. This is the law of nature.
The question is how to recruit good staff force and importantly to sustain the eagerness and commitment of the new recruits until the last day of their service with MBPJ? Some believe on the incentives and penalties system. By rewarding someone, he/she will be motivated to perform better. Similarly, penalty will prevent someone from committing an error again and again. This system is effective provided that the organisation can innovate the system from time to time as people can be bored and greedy for more over time.
Perhaps inculcating a norm and value amongst staffs for working with sincere and truly should be a step forward. The staffs have to realise that earning the right way through right work ethic and attitude is the only right thing to do, and a minimum that request by MBPJ. For ensuring that the system is workable, a mechanism of monitoring, check and balance should also be institutionalised. Get other stakeholders such as Councillors and other accredited agencies or even the community members to evaluate the performance of individual, departments and MBPJ.
We have to work as a team or else the ranking of MBPJ might not be able to improve next year.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Deepavali Open House
I was so impressed with the MBPJ Deepavali Open House organised by my fellow Indian friends last Friday. The cooperation spirit, involvement and worked as a team of the staffs that inspired me the most. The event was well attended by more than 2,000 people without any disputes, different from claims by some quarters.
I understood that apart from contributing their time and energy, the Indian employees have also contributed cash for organising this event so to subsidise token contributed by MBPJ. While cash contribution showed their eagerness and commitment to share their joys with other community members, perhaps it is good for MBPJ to foot the total bill after all MBPJ has a policy to celebrate all festive seasons. My wish for year 2009 is to see all MBPJ staff from different ethnic background to jointly organise the Hari Raya Aidil Fitri, Chinese New Year, Christmas and Deepavali. Let's work as a team and to share everyone joys.
Thank you my fellow friends for presenting an entertaining and informative cultural show, and of course the delicious food. Perhaps it is the first time that I have so many Indian food for a single day. I hope to introduce the Choy Kwai Tey, Kuih Bakul, Hokkein Mee, Chee Cheong Fun, Siew Bao, Calligraphy etc apart from the usual Mandarin Orange and Lions Dance to all my friends in the coming Chinese New Year celebration.
The only complaints I have was the use of non-washable and non-disposable utensils. As MBPJ is urging public to be environmental friendly and to discourage the use of plastic, it is nicer for us showing the example. Hopefully, the future festive celebrations will see an environmental friendly and caring party.
Other than that, I have all praise for my fellow friends. Kudos.
I understood that apart from contributing their time and energy, the Indian employees have also contributed cash for organising this event so to subsidise token contributed by MBPJ. While cash contribution showed their eagerness and commitment to share their joys with other community members, perhaps it is good for MBPJ to foot the total bill after all MBPJ has a policy to celebrate all festive seasons. My wish for year 2009 is to see all MBPJ staff from different ethnic background to jointly organise the Hari Raya Aidil Fitri, Chinese New Year, Christmas and Deepavali. Let's work as a team and to share everyone joys.
Thank you my fellow friends for presenting an entertaining and informative cultural show, and of course the delicious food. Perhaps it is the first time that I have so many Indian food for a single day. I hope to introduce the Choy Kwai Tey, Kuih Bakul, Hokkein Mee, Chee Cheong Fun, Siew Bao, Calligraphy etc apart from the usual Mandarin Orange and Lions Dance to all my friends in the coming Chinese New Year celebration.
The only complaints I have was the use of non-washable and non-disposable utensils. As MBPJ is urging public to be environmental friendly and to discourage the use of plastic, it is nicer for us showing the example. Hopefully, the future festive celebrations will see an environmental friendly and caring party.
Other than that, I have all praise for my fellow friends. Kudos.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Environmental Education Carnival
The 3th Environmental Education Carnival was successfully held on the 13 November 2008 at Civic Centre. It was jointly organised by MBPJ, Global Environmental Centre and Sri Kelana Primary School to inculcate the love of school children on environment. To do that, educate them on the need of environmental conservation is important. This event saw the participation of 165 teachers and students from 6 schools in PJ. So far, a total of 800 students has been trained.
The participants were exposed to the environmental crisis we are facing now such as climate change, global warming, depletion of natural resources, pollution, deforestation, loss of biodiversity and etc. Various natural disaster and abnormal circumstances such as Tsunami, flash flood. earth quake and animal encroachment to human settlements were quoted to get the participants to refresh on the environmental crisis. It is not something unexpected and unaccounted for, it is the impacts of human wrongdoing or overdoing cumulatively. It is the collection of individual action.
For example, what will happen to the air quality of PJ if everyone reduces his/her CO2 emission? As every individual omits 9.7 tonnes of CO2 per year and we need 465 trees to adsorb the gas, the less the emission means fresher we are even though with fewer trees. Since the emission is difficult to reduce due to the affluent lifestyle, then we have no choice but to plant more trees. Hence, the proposed program to get every school children to plant a tree is definitely of help. Having said this, coming out with a concrete plan to motivate school children to plant, to manage, to look after and importantly to feel proud about "owning" the tree is critical. More importantly to plant at sites with no disturbances, either short term or long term. Perhaps considering to award "tree birth certificate" to the planter, to organise competition on the most well kept tree or the school planted with the highest number of trees are some of the good ideas.
We have also encouraged the participants to submit proposal for environmental protection project in their school. The response, however was not that encouraging. We have only received one proposal with the anticipation of five. Perhaps more structure approach of carrying out this need to be done. I believe it is a good initiative to stimulate environmental projects in the school and to motivate school children be more creative. Ultimately, this will help the school in achieving sustainable school, and collectively a sustainable PJ.
Some might think that environmental education is important but not urgent. They wonder why LA21 PJ has spent much efforts for the environmental education. I beg to defer. While soft approach for adult might not be effective as their perception and attitude is difficult to change, exposing children to the environmental crisis can lend them toward caring about environmental. It is important to teach them and to let them know the good of doing gently and nicely toward our environment from the young age. This will bear fruit when they grew older or if not started to remind their parent of doing the same. Well, it is a long term endeavour, believe me.
The participants were exposed to the environmental crisis we are facing now such as climate change, global warming, depletion of natural resources, pollution, deforestation, loss of biodiversity and etc. Various natural disaster and abnormal circumstances such as Tsunami, flash flood. earth quake and animal encroachment to human settlements were quoted to get the participants to refresh on the environmental crisis. It is not something unexpected and unaccounted for, it is the impacts of human wrongdoing or overdoing cumulatively. It is the collection of individual action.
For example, what will happen to the air quality of PJ if everyone reduces his/her CO2 emission? As every individual omits 9.7 tonnes of CO2 per year and we need 465 trees to adsorb the gas, the less the emission means fresher we are even though with fewer trees. Since the emission is difficult to reduce due to the affluent lifestyle, then we have no choice but to plant more trees. Hence, the proposed program to get every school children to plant a tree is definitely of help. Having said this, coming out with a concrete plan to motivate school children to plant, to manage, to look after and importantly to feel proud about "owning" the tree is critical. More importantly to plant at sites with no disturbances, either short term or long term. Perhaps considering to award "tree birth certificate" to the planter, to organise competition on the most well kept tree or the school planted with the highest number of trees are some of the good ideas.
We have also encouraged the participants to submit proposal for environmental protection project in their school. The response, however was not that encouraging. We have only received one proposal with the anticipation of five. Perhaps more structure approach of carrying out this need to be done. I believe it is a good initiative to stimulate environmental projects in the school and to motivate school children be more creative. Ultimately, this will help the school in achieving sustainable school, and collectively a sustainable PJ.
Some might think that environmental education is important but not urgent. They wonder why LA21 PJ has spent much efforts for the environmental education. I beg to defer. While soft approach for adult might not be effective as their perception and attitude is difficult to change, exposing children to the environmental crisis can lend them toward caring about environmental. It is important to teach them and to let them know the good of doing gently and nicely toward our environment from the young age. This will bear fruit when they grew older or if not started to remind their parent of doing the same. Well, it is a long term endeavour, believe me.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Participatory Planning (2)
Last Friday, for the first time in MBPJ's history, a public forum involving all stakeholders for outdoor billboard was held. More than 80 people representing the billboard companies, residents groups, media and Council's staff were in attendance. It was widely reported and commended. The attendance is expected as billboard issues and illegal erection as well as irregularities have been hotly debated since two years ago.
I do not want to discuss on the issue as many will come back again this coming Friday to seek for an amicable solution, the outcome that will benefit the Council and the residents financially and aesthetically. What i am interested is the approach in participatory planning. For an effective public participation to take place, aspects of context, content and process have to be looked into.
Context is referred to the appropriateness of venue, time and conduct of the consultation whereas content is the topic to be discusses and its relevant. Process refers to the methods of preparing, conducting and post-consultation. Lacking of any one of the above or showing the bias towards any one aspect can result in unsatisfactory and inactive or nonconstructive participation by any parties.
It was reported that the billboard contractors were not too happy as they have only received notification two days before the meeting. They were also not too happy to share the profit with Council. The residents were not pleased with the inaction of Council in tearing down the illegal billboard. It seems that everyone has something to say. Any resolution without affirmative actions will not stop people from continually talking.
Perhaps it is time to record what transpired and become a lesson learnt. A book outlining the process of this case study will be good as a guide for future forum. It is definitely a quantum leap in participatory planning, if the outcome is of help financially and aesthetically to PJ.
I do not want to discuss on the issue as many will come back again this coming Friday to seek for an amicable solution, the outcome that will benefit the Council and the residents financially and aesthetically. What i am interested is the approach in participatory planning. For an effective public participation to take place, aspects of context, content and process have to be looked into.
Context is referred to the appropriateness of venue, time and conduct of the consultation whereas content is the topic to be discusses and its relevant. Process refers to the methods of preparing, conducting and post-consultation. Lacking of any one of the above or showing the bias towards any one aspect can result in unsatisfactory and inactive or nonconstructive participation by any parties.
It was reported that the billboard contractors were not too happy as they have only received notification two days before the meeting. They were also not too happy to share the profit with Council. The residents were not pleased with the inaction of Council in tearing down the illegal billboard. It seems that everyone has something to say. Any resolution without affirmative actions will not stop people from continually talking.
Perhaps it is time to record what transpired and become a lesson learnt. A book outlining the process of this case study will be good as a guide for future forum. It is definitely a quantum leap in participatory planning, if the outcome is of help financially and aesthetically to PJ.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Collective Responsibility
I spoke to the hawkers of the Section 17 Morning Market, Jalan 17/27 on cleanliness and hygienic condition last Wednesday. The market is contributing to the foul smell in Section 17 Town Centre. More than 70% of them turned up in the briefing session vindicated that they are serious of keeping the trading premise tidy. Similar sessions were conducted for Taman Megah and SS2 hawkers last week.
I emphasized on the collective responsibility. Previously, enforcement actions failed due to the irresponsible individual and care less attitude of the hawkers. Hawkers simply do not care about each others and it is very rare to see each other reminding everyone on the need for a cleaner environment. Everyone claims so busy with their business to such extend that nobody bothers about the cleanliness in the public and surrounding area. A compound served on an individual or even order to temporary close the individual trading place does not deter others from continually violating the law. It is a never ending battle for MBPJ when it comes to cleanliness and hygienic as long as the hawkers do not change their attitude and ethic for a good environment and governance.
Perhaps compel them to observing collective responsibility is the only option. Encourage them or if warrant force them to act collectively, and thus responsible as a team on any wrong doings. For example, to close down the whole market for few days if laws have been violated even by an individual or minority or if a number of compounds have been issued in a fix period of time. No individual, but group responsibility is entertained. For hawkers, asking them to cease business for few days is killing. They can afford to pay the fine rather than of not doing business. In order to effectively implementing this new approach, solid supports from stakeholders, namely the Councillors, residents and consumers are important. On top of that, consultation process between all stakeholders to create consensus on the accepted criteria is critical prior to full implementation. For example, to agree on the service standard etc.
While the long term impact is yet to ascertain, the immediate result is forthcoming. On Monday, the hawkers together with MBPJ organised a mass cleaning up exercise and they have agreed to do it every month. On top of that, every stall will contribute RM30 per month to engage cleaners to up keep the premise during operation hours. It is definitely a good development. Hopefully the change attitude is extended to cover other aspects of sustainability such as environmental and user friendly, fair trade, food safety, health and etc.
Liveable City of Petaling Jaya for all is achievable if only everyone plays his/her responsibility. In this case, hawkers are playing important role.
I emphasized on the collective responsibility. Previously, enforcement actions failed due to the irresponsible individual and care less attitude of the hawkers. Hawkers simply do not care about each others and it is very rare to see each other reminding everyone on the need for a cleaner environment. Everyone claims so busy with their business to such extend that nobody bothers about the cleanliness in the public and surrounding area. A compound served on an individual or even order to temporary close the individual trading place does not deter others from continually violating the law. It is a never ending battle for MBPJ when it comes to cleanliness and hygienic as long as the hawkers do not change their attitude and ethic for a good environment and governance.
Perhaps compel them to observing collective responsibility is the only option. Encourage them or if warrant force them to act collectively, and thus responsible as a team on any wrong doings. For example, to close down the whole market for few days if laws have been violated even by an individual or minority or if a number of compounds have been issued in a fix period of time. No individual, but group responsibility is entertained. For hawkers, asking them to cease business for few days is killing. They can afford to pay the fine rather than of not doing business. In order to effectively implementing this new approach, solid supports from stakeholders, namely the Councillors, residents and consumers are important. On top of that, consultation process between all stakeholders to create consensus on the accepted criteria is critical prior to full implementation. For example, to agree on the service standard etc.
While the long term impact is yet to ascertain, the immediate result is forthcoming. On Monday, the hawkers together with MBPJ organised a mass cleaning up exercise and they have agreed to do it every month. On top of that, every stall will contribute RM30 per month to engage cleaners to up keep the premise during operation hours. It is definitely a good development. Hopefully the change attitude is extended to cover other aspects of sustainability such as environmental and user friendly, fair trade, food safety, health and etc.
Liveable City of Petaling Jaya for all is achievable if only everyone plays his/her responsibility. In this case, hawkers are playing important role.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Petaling Jaya Recycling Expo 2008
The 4th PJ Recycling Expo concluded on 12 November 2008 at the Jaya 33 Complex. The event with the participation of 15 organisations and agencies was held in conjunction with the National Recycling Day celebration. Various activities to raise awareness, to educate and to enhance the knowledge and skills of public on 3R were organised. YB Elizabeth Wong, the Selangor State Executive Council Member for Environment officially graced the occasion a day earlier.
This is the first time the Expo was held in a complex, a trial to promote 3R concept to the working groups after the event was held at Menara MBPJ and Sri Kelana School for the past three years. With the change of venue, the visitors were also different. This year we saw handful of office workers dropped by to visit the booths and to make enquiries on recycling especially the handicraft made of recyclable items. The change is hopefully widening the target group for 3R, deviated from the normal residents and school children. This is critical for making 3R movement an inclusive action and norm.
My staff and myself have also learned how to put up a more presentable and professional exhibition in the commercial complex. We have to adhere to rules set up by the management. For example, to lay carpet on top of the exhibition area, to make preparation after the business hour so as not to disturb the existing outlets and etc. The stringent requirements compel us to have greater coordination and tolerance amongst departments and exhibitors. Everyone has to commit and work closely for staging the show within 24 hours. I was there to supervise until 3am next morning. I think it is a good learning process for participatory planning. Ensuring an effective participation process is easy said than done. While we can notify people coming for a consultation session, the outcome might not be fruitful and useful if proper preparation taking into consideration the agenda of various parties are not met.
This year also saw the participation of DANIDA-SWMC, the consultant advising Government of Malaysia on the solid waste management and corporatization. The exhibitor showed some good community initiatives for 3R. These include the recycling bank for school children in Penang, waste composting machine in Subang Jaya, household composting in Petaling Jaya etc. On top of that, few private entities were also invited to participate. Two interesting booths were, one showcased the rostrum made from TetraPak beverage cartons and another one on the handbag made from the aluminium can. It truly portraits that waste is wealth in which some believe that Nothing is Waste, Everything is Money. I start to believe it.
A month-long computer recycling campaign courtesy of Dell and concluded with the lucky draw on the last day of Expo was organised. It is a strategy to encourage e-waste recycling. Apart from the RM0.40 per kg payment, for every 2 kg, a lucky draw coupon was given. A total of 10 prizes worth RM10,000 was offered. You guess, who was the luckiest one? I truly took home a Dell laptop. Now, you see why i have started to believe it? Ha..Ha...
This is the first time the Expo was held in a complex, a trial to promote 3R concept to the working groups after the event was held at Menara MBPJ and Sri Kelana School for the past three years. With the change of venue, the visitors were also different. This year we saw handful of office workers dropped by to visit the booths and to make enquiries on recycling especially the handicraft made of recyclable items. The change is hopefully widening the target group for 3R, deviated from the normal residents and school children. This is critical for making 3R movement an inclusive action and norm.
My staff and myself have also learned how to put up a more presentable and professional exhibition in the commercial complex. We have to adhere to rules set up by the management. For example, to lay carpet on top of the exhibition area, to make preparation after the business hour so as not to disturb the existing outlets and etc. The stringent requirements compel us to have greater coordination and tolerance amongst departments and exhibitors. Everyone has to commit and work closely for staging the show within 24 hours. I was there to supervise until 3am next morning. I think it is a good learning process for participatory planning. Ensuring an effective participation process is easy said than done. While we can notify people coming for a consultation session, the outcome might not be fruitful and useful if proper preparation taking into consideration the agenda of various parties are not met.
This year also saw the participation of DANIDA-SWMC, the consultant advising Government of Malaysia on the solid waste management and corporatization. The exhibitor showed some good community initiatives for 3R. These include the recycling bank for school children in Penang, waste composting machine in Subang Jaya, household composting in Petaling Jaya etc. On top of that, few private entities were also invited to participate. Two interesting booths were, one showcased the rostrum made from TetraPak beverage cartons and another one on the handbag made from the aluminium can. It truly portraits that waste is wealth in which some believe that Nothing is Waste, Everything is Money. I start to believe it.
A month-long computer recycling campaign courtesy of Dell and concluded with the lucky draw on the last day of Expo was organised. It is a strategy to encourage e-waste recycling. Apart from the RM0.40 per kg payment, for every 2 kg, a lucky draw coupon was given. A total of 10 prizes worth RM10,000 was offered. You guess, who was the luckiest one? I truly took home a Dell laptop. Now, you see why i have started to believe it? Ha..Ha...
Participatory Planning
I was asked to chair the discussion cum briefing session between MBPJ, Hawkers and the Residents Association for the construction of new market and temporary relocation of stalls at Taman Megah, SS24 last Friday. The meeting started at 3pm and finished 5 hours later. The time spent indicated the hectic process for a hot, yet fruitful discussion. At the end of the day, everybody was happy and presumably was satisfied with the outcome.
This is the first time that residents representatives were sit in the discussion between MBPJ and hawkers. Previously, all discussions in regarding of construction of new premises, relocation or even closure of market place were conducted between both parties. This, in time created uneasy situation as the interest of other stakeholders has not taken into consideration and many of the time the parties involved were asking many requests based on their interest and from their own point of view. The outcome, of course is one sided.
While it is nothing wrong for hawkers to request the best deals for themselves, it is unethical if the requests have been done mainly for their own interest without considering the feeling and sentiments of other stakeholders. For example, requesting the temporary closure of a road for a conducive marketing environment at the temporary site without considering the impact on traffic circulation at surrounding area, leaving behind the unmanned stalls at temporary trading site without considering the unsightliness of the town centre etc, to me is uncalled for. Hawkers must bear their corporate social responsibility. They are responsible to the consumers, stakeholders and the environment.
In order to encourage participation, hawkers were empowered to voice their opinions and to make decisions. For instance, they are asked to decide on the number of stalls, to allow or not requests made by their fellow friends on stall allocation, to decide on the date for shifting etc. They felt that their opinions have been given due recognition and they are very much felt part of the process. Empowerment is important for an effective participatory planning. Perhaps MBPJ should start a program to build up the hawkers capacity and let them involve in related matters affecting their livelihood.
Since MBPJ has decided to close entire trading premise if a place is found untidy, dirty and unhygienic, the process for drafting the detail definition and accepted terms and conditions can be participatory in nature. It is critical to involve the hawkers and other stakeholders to formulate an acceptable guidelines and definition on these. It will not help much by having a self-drafted guideline imposing on others, especially the direct parties without any consultation and consensus.
I am optimistic and looking forward for more such constructive consultation sessions with Hawkers.
This is the first time that residents representatives were sit in the discussion between MBPJ and hawkers. Previously, all discussions in regarding of construction of new premises, relocation or even closure of market place were conducted between both parties. This, in time created uneasy situation as the interest of other stakeholders has not taken into consideration and many of the time the parties involved were asking many requests based on their interest and from their own point of view. The outcome, of course is one sided.
While it is nothing wrong for hawkers to request the best deals for themselves, it is unethical if the requests have been done mainly for their own interest without considering the feeling and sentiments of other stakeholders. For example, requesting the temporary closure of a road for a conducive marketing environment at the temporary site without considering the impact on traffic circulation at surrounding area, leaving behind the unmanned stalls at temporary trading site without considering the unsightliness of the town centre etc, to me is uncalled for. Hawkers must bear their corporate social responsibility. They are responsible to the consumers, stakeholders and the environment.
In order to encourage participation, hawkers were empowered to voice their opinions and to make decisions. For instance, they are asked to decide on the number of stalls, to allow or not requests made by their fellow friends on stall allocation, to decide on the date for shifting etc. They felt that their opinions have been given due recognition and they are very much felt part of the process. Empowerment is important for an effective participatory planning. Perhaps MBPJ should start a program to build up the hawkers capacity and let them involve in related matters affecting their livelihood.
Since MBPJ has decided to close entire trading premise if a place is found untidy, dirty and unhygienic, the process for drafting the detail definition and accepted terms and conditions can be participatory in nature. It is critical to involve the hawkers and other stakeholders to formulate an acceptable guidelines and definition on these. It will not help much by having a self-drafted guideline imposing on others, especially the direct parties without any consultation and consensus.
I am optimistic and looking forward for more such constructive consultation sessions with Hawkers.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Community Initiative (5) - Recycling
I was invited to attend the 5th Anniversary Thanks Giving Dinner organised by the Pertubuhan Amal Seri Sinar (PASS) last night. Altogether, more than 500 people attended the dinner in which RM 154,000 was raised and redistributed to 564 poor students from 20 over schools in Malaysia. This is a dinner for charity function.
Pertubuhan Amal Seri Sinar started five years ago to involve in the recycling activities with the believe that waste is wealth. It is now became the organisation with the largest recycling service network in Malaysia. Over five years, more than 50,000 tonnes of waste has been collected and recycled, over RM 500,000 was donated to the charitable homes. More importantly, by recycling 50,000 tonnes of rubbish is tantamount to help the Government to save RM 6 millions in solid waste management. According to Dato' Eadon Chin, its' founder the success of PASS is due to the holistic and systemic approach in handling the recycling process. He decided to do it enterprisingly after noticing that many of the NGOs failed to sustain after some time due to capacity problems. Many NGOs have started well as a handful of the members are eagerly of doing something good, but discontinue or loss interest whenever the members leave or encountered difficulty or poor response. His experience vindicated a structure and business way of doing recycling.
Another important milestone to share is making recycling as easy as possible by locating bins in various strategic locations. More than 150 bins are placed in different localities to facilitate people on disposing unwanted items as well as on site schedule collection and door service to pick up bulky waste are provided. It works well as people have no reason of not disposing the unwanted items into the bins closer to their home or work place. It is also a marketing strategy to promote PASS and 3R as it is so visible that nobody can miss the orange colour bins.
For an effective implementation of 3R programmes for the community at large, those who has not started yet, innovation out reach programmes focusing on convenience is critical. Perhaps, the days to wait at community recycling centre for residents to come by might have to revolve.
Pertubuhan Amal Seri Sinar started five years ago to involve in the recycling activities with the believe that waste is wealth. It is now became the organisation with the largest recycling service network in Malaysia. Over five years, more than 50,000 tonnes of waste has been collected and recycled, over RM 500,000 was donated to the charitable homes. More importantly, by recycling 50,000 tonnes of rubbish is tantamount to help the Government to save RM 6 millions in solid waste management. According to Dato' Eadon Chin, its' founder the success of PASS is due to the holistic and systemic approach in handling the recycling process. He decided to do it enterprisingly after noticing that many of the NGOs failed to sustain after some time due to capacity problems. Many NGOs have started well as a handful of the members are eagerly of doing something good, but discontinue or loss interest whenever the members leave or encountered difficulty or poor response. His experience vindicated a structure and business way of doing recycling.
Another important milestone to share is making recycling as easy as possible by locating bins in various strategic locations. More than 150 bins are placed in different localities to facilitate people on disposing unwanted items as well as on site schedule collection and door service to pick up bulky waste are provided. It works well as people have no reason of not disposing the unwanted items into the bins closer to their home or work place. It is also a marketing strategy to promote PASS and 3R as it is so visible that nobody can miss the orange colour bins.
For an effective implementation of 3R programmes for the community at large, those who has not started yet, innovation out reach programmes focusing on convenience is critical. Perhaps, the days to wait at community recycling centre for residents to come by might have to revolve.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Capacity of Stakeholders
I was invited to share MBPJ's experiences in Local Agenda 21 implementation with the stakeholders of Sepang Municipal Council last Saturday. Together with Mr Ismail Latiff of PJS 2 and Mr Azman of Section 6, Kota Damansara, we discussed the achievement and obstacles for LA 21 PJ implementation over the last 8 years. The Workshop impressed me the most is questions and answers session. We were grilled by the participants on the failures for LA 21 implementation in relation to Sepang experiences. They claimed that after such a long time since 1992 Rio Summit that Sepang is looking into implementing the LA 21 is certainly unacceptable. Issues related to the administrative difficulties of Sepang were also mentioned. This reflects on the issue of willingness and commitment. I must confessed that after delivering countless papers on LA 21 implementation in Malaysia, this is the first time i have witnessed such a fierce responses from the workshop participants.
To me, this shows a sense of urgency and commitment from the stakeholders. The awareness and knowledge level of the stakeholders are higher now that it is such a good opportunity for LA 21 activists to press on. It also reflects on the change of mentality towards good governance in the administration of local authorities.
I sincerely hope that prospect for LA 21 and hence sustainable development is brighter now on.
To me, this shows a sense of urgency and commitment from the stakeholders. The awareness and knowledge level of the stakeholders are higher now that it is such a good opportunity for LA 21 activists to press on. It also reflects on the change of mentality towards good governance in the administration of local authorities.
I sincerely hope that prospect for LA 21 and hence sustainable development is brighter now on.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Community Initiative (4) - Family Day
I attended the Bandar Utama Family Day Carnival at BU3/1 Community Hall last Sunday. I must said that the event organised by the Bandar Utama Residents Association was the biggest ever organised by a CBO that i have attended. Various fun-filled, friendly and informative activities were there for the big crowd. According to Mr Lim See Meng, the organising chairman, he and the team have concentrated full time on the event for the past three weeks.
Organising a community event can be a difficult task or an easy jobs, depending on what level of impact and participation. It can be a small gathering with free food or it can be a paid event for like-minded people to gather. It is very much subjected to the target group we are talking about and the objectives that we are trying to achieve. For example, for the purpose of introducing a new subject such as implementation of recycling activity, a lot of efforts is needed to convince the residents that it is a worthy project. On the other hand, we do not need to make a special effort in inviting people to attend to object any new development project constructed in front of their house. The people will take their initiative to organise and to attend to such briefing sessions. People are choosy in participation. They are only interested to spend time for things affected them directly rather than to attend to functions that have invisible impacts on them. This is a challenge in community development.
My perception on this changed after witnessing the big turnout at Bandar Utama. I believe if an event is well organised, the people will come forward no matter how. It will definitely require wholehearted collective efforts, and importantly innovation and creativity. Perhaps for a successful community event organised by MBPJ, such approach should be applied. We could learn from the community or even to out-source to the CBO for helping us in organising such events.
Organising a community event can be a difficult task or an easy jobs, depending on what level of impact and participation. It can be a small gathering with free food or it can be a paid event for like-minded people to gather. It is very much subjected to the target group we are talking about and the objectives that we are trying to achieve. For example, for the purpose of introducing a new subject such as implementation of recycling activity, a lot of efforts is needed to convince the residents that it is a worthy project. On the other hand, we do not need to make a special effort in inviting people to attend to object any new development project constructed in front of their house. The people will take their initiative to organise and to attend to such briefing sessions. People are choosy in participation. They are only interested to spend time for things affected them directly rather than to attend to functions that have invisible impacts on them. This is a challenge in community development.
My perception on this changed after witnessing the big turnout at Bandar Utama. I believe if an event is well organised, the people will come forward no matter how. It will definitely require wholehearted collective efforts, and importantly innovation and creativity. Perhaps for a successful community event organised by MBPJ, such approach should be applied. We could learn from the community or even to out-source to the CBO for helping us in organising such events.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Negotiation
Negotiation is to bargain for the best deal. At time, in order to get the best deal, parties involved tend to underscore each other or pushing other to the limit for a win-lose outcome. This, from the sustainable development point of view and public-private partnership is definitely unthinkable. We need to create a win-win situation, to satisfy both the parties, to convince each one that we are sharing the goods, of course the responsibility. Does such an idealistic situation occur in the daily encountering?
It is possible provided that both parties are sincere in finding a solution as well as skillful and knowledgeable in discussion and creating consensus. If we are professional in focusing on agenda rather than the personal, diplomatic in approach rather than trying hard to run down each others, for sure the win-win situation is achievable.
Negotiation is happened everywhere and everyday. Residents bargain with the Council for better services, Council negotiates with the service providers and suppliers for better quality services, Businesses discuss with clients for better returns. Understanding each others needs and agenda, thus becoming a critical prerequisite for well preparation. Public servants shall be trained to be better negotiators or else we have no capability to conduct a constructive discussion with the stakeholders. This is a must as inter-personal communication is the top priority now for an effective leader.
It is possible provided that both parties are sincere in finding a solution as well as skillful and knowledgeable in discussion and creating consensus. If we are professional in focusing on agenda rather than the personal, diplomatic in approach rather than trying hard to run down each others, for sure the win-win situation is achievable.
Negotiation is happened everywhere and everyday. Residents bargain with the Council for better services, Council negotiates with the service providers and suppliers for better quality services, Businesses discuss with clients for better returns. Understanding each others needs and agenda, thus becoming a critical prerequisite for well preparation. Public servants shall be trained to be better negotiators or else we have no capability to conduct a constructive discussion with the stakeholders. This is a must as inter-personal communication is the top priority now for an effective leader.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
World Class City
The vision of creating a world class city for Kuala Lumpur is commendable. Kuala Lumpur City Plan 2020 envisions to transform KL to the class of Tokyo, New York, Singapore, Melbourne, just to name a few. It is timely that for Malaysia to develop a world class city to better reflect the developmental achievement of the Country, after all we are envisioned to achieve the Developed Nation status by 2020. I was briefed by the planners of City Hall Kuala Lumpur last week on the rationale and plan to be implemented for achieving the goals. I must say well plan and well done.
Having said this, having a plan outlining what to do for a world class city is definitely not sufficient and holistic without having the world class mechanism, governance system in place and more importantly the world class mentality of the people. Be it the staffs of executing agencies or the general public. We need staffs and leaders with visions, management skill, leadership charisma, knowledgeable and importantly first class inter and intra-personal skills for moving the plan ahead. At the same time, the stakeholders especially the beneficiaries of the plan to reshape their mentality and thinking. Thinking for the long term benefits rather than the immediate impacts and petty urban issues.
In the globalisation and environmental decay era, city is becoming the centric for nation development. The competitiveness of a country is very much depended on how competitive the major city in competing worldwide for the capital inflows, brain, technologies and expertise. KL, the capital of Malaysia as the catalyst of development for the Klang Valley and Malaysia will determine how well other cities within the conurbation to perform and develop. The support of other local authorities is critical, especially the hinterland to provide excellent and world class manpower.
A fine city does not necessary mean a world class city. A world class city shall be resilient and adaptive to the changing environment and sustainable development. People in a fine city can live comfortably and with higher quality of life, but if the city government has to spend large amount of money to manage the waste, energy consumption, waste water, wastage from consumption and production due to the affluence lifestyle, then the city, to me is not a world class. Every city has the responsibility to sustaining the Earth, and thus any action by its citizen to create more waste, to pollute the environment and to consume resources excessively although with the capability to pay for it, is not a world class city. KL, has to ensure that sustainability by all is embedded in the plan.
Attaining a world class status is not possible without mutual understanding and cooperation as well as partnership amongst all stakeholders. It is no point for City Hall of Kuala Lumpur to set a high target, but later found that execution is a difficult task as supports and commitment from other agencies, private sector and community groups are not forthcoming. In this respect, communication and creating mutual understanding for trust building is critical. People suspects the implementable of a plan simply due to the doubt for execution as planned. The doubt might be resulted from the perception on current poor service delivery and enforcement control over the urban planning sprawl and management. In order to get rid of this suspicious, enhance the quality of service and communicating more often with the stakeholders can be helpful.
While those have opportunities to witness the well planned for some world class cities in other part of the world and convince that we can do the same for Kuala Lumpur, the task is to market to possibilities to the community at large. The lay man who engages with encountering daily and might not be so bothered about what happenings elsewhere need to be convinced. Ignoring them and owing them an appropriate explanation is unthinkable. Planners, in guiding development and protecting the public interest have a big role to play.
Having said this, having a plan outlining what to do for a world class city is definitely not sufficient and holistic without having the world class mechanism, governance system in place and more importantly the world class mentality of the people. Be it the staffs of executing agencies or the general public. We need staffs and leaders with visions, management skill, leadership charisma, knowledgeable and importantly first class inter and intra-personal skills for moving the plan ahead. At the same time, the stakeholders especially the beneficiaries of the plan to reshape their mentality and thinking. Thinking for the long term benefits rather than the immediate impacts and petty urban issues.
In the globalisation and environmental decay era, city is becoming the centric for nation development. The competitiveness of a country is very much depended on how competitive the major city in competing worldwide for the capital inflows, brain, technologies and expertise. KL, the capital of Malaysia as the catalyst of development for the Klang Valley and Malaysia will determine how well other cities within the conurbation to perform and develop. The support of other local authorities is critical, especially the hinterland to provide excellent and world class manpower.
A fine city does not necessary mean a world class city. A world class city shall be resilient and adaptive to the changing environment and sustainable development. People in a fine city can live comfortably and with higher quality of life, but if the city government has to spend large amount of money to manage the waste, energy consumption, waste water, wastage from consumption and production due to the affluence lifestyle, then the city, to me is not a world class. Every city has the responsibility to sustaining the Earth, and thus any action by its citizen to create more waste, to pollute the environment and to consume resources excessively although with the capability to pay for it, is not a world class city. KL, has to ensure that sustainability by all is embedded in the plan.
Attaining a world class status is not possible without mutual understanding and cooperation as well as partnership amongst all stakeholders. It is no point for City Hall of Kuala Lumpur to set a high target, but later found that execution is a difficult task as supports and commitment from other agencies, private sector and community groups are not forthcoming. In this respect, communication and creating mutual understanding for trust building is critical. People suspects the implementable of a plan simply due to the doubt for execution as planned. The doubt might be resulted from the perception on current poor service delivery and enforcement control over the urban planning sprawl and management. In order to get rid of this suspicious, enhance the quality of service and communicating more often with the stakeholders can be helpful.
While those have opportunities to witness the well planned for some world class cities in other part of the world and convince that we can do the same for Kuala Lumpur, the task is to market to possibilities to the community at large. The lay man who engages with encountering daily and might not be so bothered about what happenings elsewhere need to be convinced. Ignoring them and owing them an appropriate explanation is unthinkable. Planners, in guiding development and protecting the public interest have a big role to play.
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