Taman Subang Ria, nestled in the bustling heart of Subang Jaya City Centre, stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of urban life and diverse wildlife. This vibrant ecosystem, anchored by the iconic fig trees, not only supports a complex web of biodiversity but also serves as a green sanctuary for the community, demonstrating the successful integration of nature into urban planning.
At the core of Taman Subang Ria, the majestic strangler fig tree, affectionately known as “Nature’s Supermarket,” offers more than just shade. It supports an intricate network of life, providing sustenance and shelter to over 66 species of birds, numerous insects, and various herpetofauna. As a pillar of the park’s ecosystem, the strangler fig tree facilitates a remarkable variety of ecological interactions that enrich the urban environment.
Imagine stepping under the Strangler fig tree expansive canopy, where a symphony of birdsong fills the air. The melodious calls of the Black-naped Oriole blend with the vibrant chirps of the Blue-tailed Bee-eater. The Pinknecked Green Pigeon plays a crucial role in seed dispersal, contributing to the growth and health of the urban forest, while the Olive-backed Sunbird flits about, pollinating flowers as it goes. This tree’s presence underscores the significant impact of integrating substantial greenery within city limits, fostering a micro-habitat where diverse species thrive.
The park is not only a haven for birds but also plays host to a variety of other wildlife, including the playful and sleek Smooth-Coated Otters, a vulnerable species as assessed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (“IUCN”) Red List. These otters navigate the park’s waterways and monsoon drains, controlling the fish population and contributing to the ecological health of the area. Aside from that, one may even find the Southeast Asian Box Turtle, an endangered species according to the IUCN Red List which can be found around the park. Their presence underscores the effectiveness of Subang Jaya’s green corridors, which allow wildlife to flourish even in densely populated areas.
Adjacent to the natural oasis of Taman Subang Ria is PARC, a community hub that epitomises sustainable urban planning. Developed in collaboration with EPIC Communities, PARC was designed based on extensive community feedback, which called for a space thatcaters to a wide array of activities while promoting environmental stewardship. This space includes cafés, event venues, and a sustainability lab - all surrounded by lush, landscaped greenery that enhances the local ecology.
The integration of PARC and Taman Subang Ria offers myriad opportunities for community engagement and environmental education. Regular activities like bird watching excursions, ecological workshops, and community farming initiatives connect residents with nature while empowering them as stakeholders in their environment. These programmes are designed to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of biodiversity, encouraging sustainable practices that residents can carry into their daily lives.
Looking forward, Sime Darby Property plans to further enhance the connectivity between its green spaces. Projects like PARC Village will extend the green corridor, providing more space for community gatherings and educational programmes. These initiatives are part of a broader vision to create a more interconnected and sustainable urban environment, where green spaces are not isolated oases but integral parts of the urban fabric. The ongoing development of Subang Jaya City Centre emphasises sustainable features that benefit both the environment and the community.
Subang Jaya City Centre, with Taman Subang Ria and PARC at its heart, serves as a model for how urban areas can support extensive urban biodiversity and foster strong community ties through integrated green spaces. The success of this model highlights the potential for cities worldwide to enhance urban living through thoughtful ecological planning and community involvement.
The story of Subang Jaya City Centre reflects a balanced approach to innovation, community, and sustainability. It shows how urban development can go hand in hand with nature conservation, fostering environments that benefit both people and wildlife. This model not only improves the quality of life for its residents but also offers an example for future urban planning, demonstrating that it is possible to create vibrant, sustainable communities within a city.
*Wildlife photos taken at site by Izereen Mukri, Ecologist, Sime Darby Property.