Paying for services not fully rendered

New Straits Times 16/03/2006

I WRITE as a concerned resident who has lived in Bukit Beruntung for over 10 years — since it was first developed.

First, let me say how proud I am of our Prime Minister, who displays his concern for his people by ensuring that the ministers and government officials discharge their duties responsibly. He will be personally monitoring this.

Next, to the Menteri Besar of Selangor, for taking the bold step of monitoring the performance of the district councils.

Issues have been brought up at the residents meetings with the different authorities on many occasions, but they appear to be unable to fulfill their duty as the developer is said to have "connections" and has not met the required specifications as laid down by the authorities.

We pay one of the highest assessment rates in Selangor. And yet the services provided are wanting.

The roadsides are not maintained, with fallen termite-infested trees and heaps of earth piled up. This provides a habitat for snakes and poses a danger to the children when they play.

The roads are not maintained. Potholes are common. The Public Works Department says the roads are not up to specifications and therefore cannot take over their maintenance.

The developer refuses to acknowledge its shortcomings. The result is that the people suffer.

Water supply is disrupted frequently. Perbadanan Urus Air Selangor bills the residents but is not managing the pumps as the developer has not handed over the pump to PUAS. Reason: not up to specifications.

Traffic lights have been requested at important junctions but the developer has no funds to install them.

We understand that Bukit Beruntung is the next industrial zone and is expected to attract investors.

Who would come with such services?

Selangor has been declared a developed State.

Is that really the case?

Why do we pay assessment and all other utilities bills for services not rendered?

D.P
Bukit Beruntung