KOTA KINABALU: Reclamation for the Tanjung Aru Eco Development (TAED) revival project should not be a problem if 80 per cent of the reclamation is given back to the community in terms of a bigger park and more recreational space.
The Sabah Timber Industry Association (STIA) president Datuk James Hwong suggested that 80 per cent of the reclamation should be to expand Prince Philip Park and recreational space, while the remaining 20 per cent for infrastructure and businesses.
Hwong said the existing Prince Philip Park, which he estimated to be about 20 acres, was too small to accommodate the growing population in Kota Kinabalu.
In fact, he proposed that Tanjung Aru Beach should be widened more than the State Government has planned for to allow more space for the park.
“If the park can be expanded up to 200 acres, people will have more space to breathe,” he said to reporters after paying a courtesy call on Mayor Datuk Abidin Madingkir with Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Sabah branch here yesterday.
Hwong is also the honorary advisor for MCCC Sabah branch.
He said reclaiming land for commercial purposes under the TAED project would not be proper, as the people need more recreational space.
On the other hand, Hwong said developments in Kota Kinabalu City were also results of sea reclamation.
“If 80 per cent of TAED is zoned for the expansion of Prince Philip Park, I don’t think the people will object,” he said adding that this was his personal view.
Hwong, who is now actively involved in Tzu Chi Foundation, a non-governmental organization heavily involved in charity and environmental works, said he was speaking up for the people on this matter.
He said reclamation must take into account the people’s needs and interests.