DBKL under fire for inaction against illegal food court

AN ILLEGAL food court has been operating with impunity in Taman Tasik Titiwangsa, despite having received two notices from Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to vacate the premises.

Residents nearby are fed up with the lack of action over the food court, owned by a non- profit organisation, which has been operating for over a year.

They complained about the noise from the stalls that caused them sleepless nights as well as about the accumulated rubbish.

They have repeatedly reported to the authorities about the structures that were built without approval at the food court.

StarMetro even reported on the issue on May 17 and Aug 25.

DBKL issued the first notice in February followed by another in July, ordering the operator to vacate the premises by Oct 16.

However, the food court remains open, though it was closed from Oct 16 to 19.

A check found several stalls operating at night, with a live performance featured.

A stall owner, who declined to be named, said she paid RM1,300 monthly rent to the non-profit organisation.

Resident Wan Hilwanie Ariff lambasted DBKL for repeatedly ignoring their complaints.

Metal cabins, next to the food court, are used as a storage area.

“Despite its promise that action would be taken, this problem has persisted with no solution in sight,” she said.

Her sibling, Wan Ziad Ariff, who also lives in the vicinity, was concerned over rubbish dumped near his house. He believes the rubbish is from the food court.

“Used tyres and metal scraps are also commonly found near my home. I am concerned they might become breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

“The workers and customers also park their vehicles in the area, causing traffic congestion,” he said.

Another resident, Ravin Binwani said some traders threw used cooking oil into the surrounding drains clogging them in the process.

“We are also constantly disturbed by noise at night,” he said, adding that DBKL should relocate the traders.

Residents are also concerned about metal cabins next to the food court, believed to be used as a storage facility.

Wan Ziad claimed the cabins, which were unsightly, were also used as living quarters for the food court workers.

The non-profit Malaysia Consultative Council of Islamic Organisation, however, denied claims of operating illegally.

Its representative said the organisation had obtained approval to trade and erect the structures at the site.

Setiawangsa MP Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, when contacted, said his office held several discussions with DBKL over the matter.

“DBKL has promised to take action this month,” said Nik Nazmi, who is also Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister.

DBKL has yet to respond to requests for comments at press time.