The Telegraph UK recently released the 14 most beautiful rivers in the world and they are certainly a sight to behold. The list consists of pristine rivers from Burma to Bosnia, and China to Colombia. The rivers that are not shockingly absent from the list are our own local rivers here in the Klang Valley.
It is no surprise that Malaysian rivers are not one of the most jaw-droppingly beautiful rivers in the world, but it hurts to know that they aren’t exactly safe for body contact either. This would mean that some rivers in Klang Valley are actually not safe enough for humans to engage in sports such as white water rafting, kayaking and swimming without first donning on a safety suit. This was actually recently shown by the MP of Serdang, Ong Kian Ming.
In a project aptly named “River Of Life” launched by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), the Serdang MP and his team set off on a tedious journey with hopes of eventually turning the Gombak and Klang rivers from a Class III – Class V level rivers (not suitable for body-contact) to a Class IIB (suitable for body-contract & recreational usage) rivers.
Even with all their efforts, it would be pointless if Malaysians don’t even know the state of their own backyard rivers. As such, PEMANDU released a survey to gauge how much locals know about their rivers and what is their understanding on the state of the rivers now, as well as what improvements they would like to see in the rivers.
The set of more than 20 questions include what does one deem as the most important purpose for a river and the answers include as a clean water source and as a means of transportation.
This survey is a chance for Malaysians to voice out their opinion about the rivers and what change could be implemented in order to one day achieve a river which locals can be proud to call their own, as well as spend weekends at, engaging in fun-filled activities. It will run for 2 weeks from the 16th of May so make your opinions count while you can.
The fact that the respective authorities are taking the time to gain feedback about the rivers is the first of many steps towards improving the quality of the water source, and by giving our responses, they are better able to execute a well-suited action plan. Perhaps one day we really could swim in our Klang Valley rivers on a perfect Saturday evening.
Kuala Lumpur was named after the muddy confluence formed by the meeting of the Gombak and Klang river, but it has now grown to be a magnificent and bustling city with skyscrapers. So our KL rivers too shouldn’t be left in its state of murky waters and putrid stench.
To partake in the survey, click here.