Residents of Bungaraya Condominium in Persiaran Golf, Section U2, Shah Alam, have expressed dissatisfaction over the condominium management’s move to cut trees within the residential compound.
Consumers Association of Subang and Shah Alam president Datuk Dr Jacob George said the cutting of trees was unwarranted in light of global warming and the Federal Government’s push to promote greenery in the country.
In a memorandum handed to the building commissioner’s office in Shah Alam, residents called for an extraordinary general meeting with the condominium management, stating the destruction of the environment as an immediate concern.
“The building commissioner has issued a verbal stop-order on the tree-cutting exercise, but the management has refused to stop until they get the order in writing,” said Jacob who represented the residents.
Residents were informed by the management that the trees had to be cut down due to security issues.
They were told that branches had to be trimmed as leaves fell into the swimming pool, while roots grew in the direction of the pool parameters.
Another resident said pro-tests were carried out, but the management refused to engage the residents.
“When I went with the residents to the management office, they brought along some people who looked like thugs to intimidate the residents. I don’t think that is right.”
Jacob said the Forest Research Institute Malaysia conducted an assessment and was shocked at learn that the felling of trees was not done properly.
“If they want to cut down the trees to upkeep the residential compound, by all means, but the way they are doing it is wrong as they are destroying the trees.
“Some of these trees are expensive and sought after. Once they are cut, they are gone.
“The cutting of trees will cause strong crosswinds to travel from the golf course in the vicinity and will have an impact on the building structure. It is dangerous.”
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Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) corporate communications and public relations head Shahrin Ahmad said while they were concerned about the residents’ welfare, the Bungaraya Condominium compound was out of its jurisdiction.
“We are not able to intervene as it is a private property.
“The best that we can do is to advise residents to discuss with the condominium management.”
Shahrin clarified that MBSA did not issue orders for any tree-felling exercise as claimed by media reports.
“MBSA has no part in this exercise. We hope we are not misunderstood by the public in the light of the reports that have been published on this matter.”