Thursday, August 07, 2008

Proposing solutions to parlour problem

THE matter of the illegal funeral parlour along Jalan Gasing will be discussed by the Petaling Jaya City Council at their One Stop Centre (OSC) meeting tomorrow.

Malay Mail highlighted yesterday that the Gasing Memorial Service had been operating illegally for 15 years. Five councillors, including mayor Datuk Mohamad Roslan Sakiman, will discuss the matter and submit their recommendations at the council’s full board meeting.

Newly appointed councillor Derek Fernandez said the OSC meeting would decide on matters pertaining to planning and development in Petaling Jaya.

“The residents in the area have protested against the parlour in the past. But we need more details for a more informed decision to be made,” said Fernandez.

Some of the State assemblymen contacted by Malay Mail opined that the parlour should be shut down immediately for the simple reason that it is illegal and poses a problem to residents.

Kampung Tunku assemblyman Lau Weng San said an alternative site should be proposed.

“I understand that the parlour caters to the lower income group. The matter should be handled in such a way so that this group is not affected,” he said.

Petaling Jaya Utara MP Tony Pua saw a need for the council to flex its muscles as the parlour had been defiant.

“There is no excuse. If they are illegal, they should not be allowed to operate. Not in the present location anyway,” said Pua.

Sri Andalas assemblyman Dr Xavier Jayakumar wanted to know how many compounds the parlour had been issued. He felt the parlour should have been forced to cease operations a long time ago.

Added Chempaka assemblyman Iskandar Abdul Samad: “It is in a housing area. The parlour is a profit-making entity and is a nuisance to the residents. Public interest should be foremost.”

However, Bukit Gasing assemblyman Edward Lee was more sympathetic, pointing out that the parlour was drawing up plans to make the place more environmentally friendly.

“Once the proposal is completed, let the parlour discuss it with the residents and the council. Let’s look at that first,” Lee said.

No comments: