KUALA LUMPUR (July 7): PNB Merdeka Ventures Sdn Bhd (PMVSB), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Permodalan Nasional Bhd (PNB), has announced the completion of its first Public Realm Improvement Programme at Perumahan Awam (PA) Jalan Hang Tuah here.

The programme was done in collaboration with its partners Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and Think City Sdn Bhd, its press release said.

The programme centred around the regeneration of an old park in PA Jalan Hang Tuah. With the recent refurbishments made, the 1,206 sq ft multipurpose park now has a couple of multi-purpose courts, a playground, a small two-stair stage and covered park benches.

Sustainable practices were also integrated into the project, including upcycling old playground equipment and fencing, reusing pavers as well as upgrading the community garden.

Nature-based solutions were implemented with porous pavers for natural drainage, while recycled Tetra Pak roofings were utilised to reduce heat and noise. Additionally, high-risk trees removed by DBKL were replaced. The press release said all the refurbishment works cost around RM800,000.

In his opening speech, PNB’s president and group CEO Ahmad Zulqarnain Onn said, “As a new neighbour in the vibrant Merdeka 118 precinct, we prioritise the well-being and safety of the community. We are focused on creating a thriving environment for everyone.

“Our efforts will benefit over 800 residents, providing them with a safe and enjoyable space for leisure, recreation, and social interactions. We are excited to witness the positive impact it will have, and we look forward to spearheading similar projects like this in the neighbourhood in the future.”

The statement added that PMVSB also initiated engagement sessions with the residents of PA Jalan Hang Tuah to ensure their active involvement in the project in creating an inclusive space for the community.

As one of the partners, Think City’s managing director Hamdan Abdul Majeed said, “The revitalisation of the PA Jalan Hang Tuah multipurpose park stands as a testament to the positive outcomes achieved through the process of creative placemaking. In partnership with DBKL, the park has successfully nurtured a thriving community within the Merdeka 118 precinct, aligning with our vision of creating a liveable city through a network of public open spaces.”

Representing DBKL, its director of community development and urban wellbeing department Ismadi Sakirin said, “The upgrade of the multipurpose park at PA Jalan Hang Tuah is in line with the Kuala Lumpur Structure Plan 2040 as well as DBKL’s aspirations to transform Kuala Lumpur into a ‘City for All’. This initiative by PMVSB supports the 11th United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of creating an inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable city.”