Growing unease continues to ripple through Bukit Damansara as residents call upon Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to urgently reassess development approvals that they believe are accelerating the erosion of the neighbourhood’s original character. At a community dialogue held yesterday, residents voiced discontent over what they described as unclear planning policies, traffic strain, and a lack of meaningful consultation.
Long-time resident and ASEAN India Business Council adviser, Datuk Bhupat Rai Premji, said the neighbourhood was never intended to accommodate the intensity of development now taking place. “Bukit Damansara was established as a low-density, dignified enclave for senior government officers. Its purpose is being distorted through unchecked projects that disregard the community’s needs,” he said.
Residents’ associations at the session echoed similar frustration. Bukit Damansara Residents Association chairman Datuk Ahmad Suffian Abdul Majid, alongside Setia Kasih Bukit Damansara Residents Association president Zuhairah Ali, emphasised the importance of restoring a balanced planning approach that aligns with the area’s infrastructure capacity.
Bhupat also highlighted long-standing concerns about worsening traffic, especially after large-scale developments such as Pavilion Damansara Heights. “Since Pavilion opened, Jalan Semantan and surrounding routes have become unbearable. One downpour, and we’re stuck for nearly an hour. This is not progress it’s planning failure,” he added.
Residents reiterated that development is not the issue; rather, it is the absence of responsible oversight. They emphasised that sustainable planning must include appropriate plot ratios, building heights, and infrastructure upgrades before additional projects are approved. “We want development that makes sense not growth that strangles its own community,” said Ahmad Suffian.
Another concern raised involved the discovery of a notice of application to sell alcohol at what residents believed was a residential property undergoing major renovations. Residents only became aware after spotting a liquor licence application notice from the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur Excise Licensing Board displayed on the house’s wall.
Neighbourhood representative Dr Barkeh Hanim Jumaat described the situation as deeply worrying. “We are shocked and strongly object. We do not want our peaceful residential area turning into a nightlife hotspot. Are we going to see a pub appear in our housing area? This thought alone is distressing,” she said.
The session concluded with residents urging DBKL to halt questionable approvals, improve transparency, and prioritise heritage preservation. Community leaders emphasised that Bukit Damansara’s identity must be safeguarded through fair, logical, and accountable urban planning that truly serves its residents.