BY: Aida Aziz
Ipoh — Besides road conditions and cable theft issues, malfunctioning streetlights and poorly lit roads remain among the most frequent complaints raised by residents in Perak.
The issue is closely linked to public interest, as many people are affected if such matters are not given due attention or properly maintained.
It is understood that streetlights fall under the jurisdiction of both local authorities and the Public Works Department Malaysia (JKR).
Typically, streetlights under local authorities are located along urban roads, residential areas or villages, while JKR is responsible for federal roads, state roads and major routes.
In this case, a complainant claimed that streetlights along the main road from the Simpang Pulai toll plaza to the traffic light junction leading to Kellie’s Castle have not been functioning for the past two years.
He alleged that he had repeatedly reported the issue to JKR, but no repair works have been carried out.
He stressed that the road is extremely dark at night, despite being a main route and a key entry point to Ipoh city.
“I have lodged many complaints to JKR, but all have been disappointing. The streetlights from the Simpang Pulai toll to the traffic light junction to Kellie’s Castle are not functioning, and the road is very dark.
“These lights are under JKR’s supervision, and many heavy vehicles use this road at night. The issue of the dark road has persisted for a long time, since 2024.
“It is embarrassing when visitors come here and exit the Simpang Pulai toll only to find no streetlights at all, as if JKR does not care,” he claimed.
He therefore expressed hope that, in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026, all parties would be more attentive to basic infrastructure for public safety, including safeguarding the image of Perak in particular.
