By Zaki Salleh
IPOH: Most residential areas in Ipoh that are over 30 years old were built with designated playgrounds or open green spaces.
However, many of these playgrounds are now poorly maintained, raising questions among residents about their current relevance and functionality.
Examples include playgrounds in Taman Pengkalan Jaya (Regat Pegoh 4, Hala Pegoh 6) and Taman Song Choon, where equipment is visibly worn out, rusted, and no longer safe—especially for children.
A survey found that maintenance typically only involves grass-cutting, while shrubs and surrounding areas are left overgrown, making the playgrounds unappealing and underutilized.
“This area used to be lively with children, but now it’s so quiet.“The playground equipment is rusted—we’re worried someone might get hurt,” said Wei Eik, a resident of Taman Song Choon.
Many of these playgrounds are located in older neighborhoods, and the declining number of children in these areas may contribute to the facilities appearing obsolete.
The key question now is: why aren’t these spaces being repurposed for more meaningful use by the community?
Among the suggestions by residents are turning the spaces into urban farming plots, community gardens, or multifunctional recreational centers that appeal to all age groups.
“We hope the local authorities take this matter seriously.
“Don’t let these areas continue to be neglected and wasted,” said Aswadi Alias, a resident of Taman Pengkalan Jaya.
He added that revitalizing and repurposing underused green spaces wouldn’t just beautify neighborhoods, but also foster social interaction and potentially generate community income.
Local authorities are urged to conduct on-site evaluations and explore the potential of transforming these areas into more relevant and beneficial community spaces.
