THE Penang local government is taking the issue of illegal parking seriously and actively carrying out enforcement actions against violators to improve the situation.
In a recent statement, MBPP has urged all parties to be more considerate in using public facilities to ensure the comfort and safety of all road users in this state.
It is not uncommon in Penang to see motorcycles parked on five-foot ways or objects placed on footpaths and other public spaces, causing inconvenience to pedestrians and traffic flow.
In addition, some businesses or individuals use objects like plastic chairs, flower pots, barrels, and cones to reserve parking bays.
This exacerbates the traffic problems in the state, especially in urban areas where traffic is often a significant issue.
In a recent statement, the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) revealed that from January to April this year, it issued a total of 3,870 compounds to offenders parking on sidewalks. Last year, MBPP issued a total of 6,761 compounds.
MBPP also cleared a total of 243 objects between January and May 15 this year. Last year, it removed a total of 871 obstacles.
The Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) also has been actively undertaking similar enforcement actions.
MBSP councillor Heng Yeh Shiuan highlighted that MBSP regularly conducts enforcement actions at gazetted parking lots, focusing on 11 ‘hot’ locations.
“The areas include Bandar Perda, Bukit Mertajam, Icon City, Bandar Sunway, Dato’ Kailan Complex, Bertam Perdana Business Center, Jalan Raja Uda, Taman Selat, Bandar Perai, Taman Chai Leng and Taman Inderawasih.
“All of these areas are regularly monitored to ensure a high level of compliance.
“As of April this year, MBSP issued 767 notices, 58 compounds, and towed 231 vehicles and obstacles. For the whole of last year, MBSP issued 1,536 notices, four compounds, and towed away 316 vehicles and obstacles,” Heng said.
Nur Syafiqah Mohd Jemmi, 23, shared a horrifying experience when Buletin Mutiara interviewed her regarding the issue of illegal parking.
“People often use cones, bricks, or anything to reserve parking spots, but I once encountered an individual using a tombstone for this purpose in Johor a few years ago.
“This instilled a sense of horror and deterred others from moving it away, as the person who placed it could be a shaman or associated with supernatural beliefs,” shared Nur Syafiqah.
Muhammad Irham Abd Haris Hilmi, 23, had a different experience when he recently visited a shopping mall and found a parking lot reserved by someone. He promptly complained to the mall’s security guard.
“I hope that the mall’s authorities will take action on this matter. I hope such incidents will not be allowed to occur in the future.
“To me, illegally booking parking space is an irresponsible and unfair practice. It also demonstrates selfishness and a lack of respect for others in society.
“It not only disrupts the smooth functioning of the parking system but can also lead to tension between users,” explained Muhammad Irham.
If you require assistance or advice regarding parking, please contact:
Island Division – MBPP Hotline at 016-200 4082 or 04-263 7000, or;
Seberang Perai Division – MBSP Enforcement Directorate at 04-540 2581 / 582 or via email at [email protected].
Story Nur Syakirah Mohd Basri
Pix courtesy of MBPP and interviewees