RM300 fee to remove obstructions a burden, say strata management bodies

Management bodies are upset with Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ)’s new RM300 fee for removal of obstructions in strata properties, saying it will increase their financial burden.

Several joint management bodies (JMBs) and management corporations (MCs) told StarMetro that they understood the rationale behind the new fee but they believe the amount is excessive.

When contacted, Pandan Heights Condominium JMB chairman Haresh Vikram Vijayakumar said their funds were limited.

“Our operating expenses are sourced from residents’ maintenance fees.

“We could use the RM300 for projects to maintain or upgrade the condominium’s facilities,” he said.

Echoing the sentiment, Kojaya Condominium MC chairman Mohd Fadzrul Abdullah said the fee would add to their financial burden.

“The only service provided by MPAJ is rubbish collection.

“Other maintenance and operating expenses are borne by the MC,” he said.

Flashback to StarMetro story on May 8.

On May 8, StarMetro reported that JMBs and MCs would be required to pay RM300 for each visit by MPAJ personnel to move vehicles and other obstructions from common areas of strata properties.

In the report, “MPAJ sets fee for moving obstacles at strata properties,” its president Dr Ani Ahmad said the fee was imposed to educate strata property management to be more proactive, in accordance with provisions outlined in the Strata Management Act 2013.

“JMBs and MCs should be empowered to carry out their duties, such as moving vehicles that are double-parked or blocking others, without the council’s intervention.

“This is provided for under the Act and JMBs and MCs need to understand and exercise their authority in managing these issues independently,” she said when announcing the new fee.

Haresh said it was unreasonable for MPAJ to impose higher fees than private tow services.

“Based on my experience, private tow services only charge RM80 to RM150.

“It is outrageous for MPAJ to charge double.

“It would be great if MPAJ could absorb at least half of the fees.

“The JMB might face objections from residents as no one would want their maintenance fees to be wasted for such reasons,” he said.

Haresh said the JMB planned to set up a reserve fund, where 1% to 2% of the maintenance fees paid by the residents would be put aside to be used for removing obstructions.

“I will bring this up in our annual general meeting.

“Guidance on the new rule will also be provided to residents through awareness campaigns and by posting notices on bulletin boards,” he added.