Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Lights in 27 parks in Subang Jaya
One of the things which we managed to improved in Canal Gardens - getting the MBSA to upgrade the (voltage) of our street lights as well as installing additional lights along the canal as well as the courts.
Well ... we'll try and do more in the coming new year.
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Lights in 27 parks in Subang Jaya
The Star, Tuesday December 23, 2008
More Subang Jaya residents will not have to jog in the park in the dark any more as the Subang Jaya Municipal Council (MPSJ) has installed lights in 27 parks under its jurisdiction.
At a press conference in her office, Subang Jaya assemblyman Hannah Yeoh said since November, most of the parks had been lit. There are about 50 parks in Subang Jaya.
USJ 11/3 Residents Association (RA) chairman Ng Peng Hin has noticed that more people going to the USJ 11/3F park and the nearby shops at night since the park was lit up two months ago.
“We had been writing letters to the MPSJ and former assemblyman Datuk Lee Hwa Beng for the past three to four years but no action was taken.
“There were lamp-posts in the park all the while but there was no electricity.
“Previously, there were some people who drank alcohol and threw the bottles there but now that the park is lit up, there are no more incidents,” he said.
Yeoh said she had been pushing for the parks to be lit since she was elected as the state assemblyman and thanked the MPSJ for its cooperation.
“Before the election, lamp-posts had been installed in 21 of the 27 parks but some were not functioning.
The other six parks were installed with lights following complaints by residents.
“Residents had been complaining that the parks were too dark and they felt unsafe.
“Even though there were streetlights in the park, they were not functioning as they were not connected to the electricity supply or not built to the required specifications.”
“We’ll continue to push for more parks to be installed with lights in Subang Jaya,” she added.
On another note, she advised residents not to play basketball or go to open areas during thunderstorms.
“I’ve noticed that there are still people who play basketball despite the rain and thunder even though a few years ago, someone was struck by lightning while playing basketball in a park in Subang Jaya.
“I hope parents will keep an eye on their children and tell them to be indoors during thunderstorms,” she urged.
Well ... we'll try and do more in the coming new year.
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Lights in 27 parks in Subang Jaya
The Star, Tuesday December 23, 2008
More Subang Jaya residents will not have to jog in the park in the dark any more as the Subang Jaya Municipal Council (MPSJ) has installed lights in 27 parks under its jurisdiction.
At a press conference in her office, Subang Jaya assemblyman Hannah Yeoh said since November, most of the parks had been lit. There are about 50 parks in Subang Jaya.
USJ 11/3 Residents Association (RA) chairman Ng Peng Hin has noticed that more people going to the USJ 11/3F park and the nearby shops at night since the park was lit up two months ago.
“We had been writing letters to the MPSJ and former assemblyman Datuk Lee Hwa Beng for the past three to four years but no action was taken.
“There were lamp-posts in the park all the while but there was no electricity.
“Previously, there were some people who drank alcohol and threw the bottles there but now that the park is lit up, there are no more incidents,” he said.
Yeoh said she had been pushing for the parks to be lit since she was elected as the state assemblyman and thanked the MPSJ for its cooperation.
“Before the election, lamp-posts had been installed in 21 of the 27 parks but some were not functioning.
The other six parks were installed with lights following complaints by residents.
“Residents had been complaining that the parks were too dark and they felt unsafe.
“Even though there were streetlights in the park, they were not functioning as they were not connected to the electricity supply or not built to the required specifications.”
“We’ll continue to push for more parks to be installed with lights in Subang Jaya,” she added.
On another note, she advised residents not to play basketball or go to open areas during thunderstorms.
“I’ve noticed that there are still people who play basketball despite the rain and thunder even though a few years ago, someone was struck by lightning while playing basketball in a park in Subang Jaya.
“I hope parents will keep an eye on their children and tell them to be indoors during thunderstorms,” she urged.
Precaution - Snatch Thieves Part II
Close encounters of the nasty kind
By The Star, 23rd December 2008 (Tues)
Tips from the victims:
Victim 1
Graphic designer Adeline Ngui, 26, was unlucky enough to have her belongings snatched twice.
“The first incident happened outside my friend’s house in Damansara Jaya. I was sitting outside the house waiting for a couple of friends when I noticed two foreigners on a motorcycle who were circling the neighbourhood for some time,” she said.
“When the pillion rider got off the motorbike and walked towards me, I presumed that he wanted to ask for directions, until I realised too late that he was eyeing my gold chain,” Ngui said.
“I tried to open the gate to enter the house but the guy pushed me down with one hand and grabbed my chain with the other,” she said. “I was too shocked to shout but I struggled to keep my chain until it broke. I tried to give chase but gave up when I saw the robbers waving a 30cm-long knife at me.”
Ngui had her purse snatched in a second incident a year later at Taman Mayang Jaya. Three passers-by attempted to chase the perpetrator who was on a motorbike but lost him in a basement carpark.
“I suffered a shallow cut in the first incident and lost my IC, cash and ATM cards in the second, which I also reported to the police. The gold chain had more of a sentimental value as it was a gift from my grandmother,” Ngui said.
“I now carry less cash with me and stuff them into my jeans pockets. Unless I know I have something specific to buy, I’ll carry more cash with me, otherwise I won’t have more than RM50,” she said.
Ngui confesses to having a phobia of motorbikers driving slowly or too near, and has vowed never to wear expensive jewellery.
Victim 2
Business development manager N. Sangeetha, 28, also had her bag snatched twice within the same year and both incidents happened in the afternoon.
“I was walking home from college in PJ Old Town when a man on a motorcycle pulled my bag off my shoulder,” Sangeetha said.
“I didn’t fight him as I was alone and didn’t want to be dragged with the motorcycle. I had already reached my rented house and didn’t want him to know where I lived. I wanted to take down the number plate but there was none,” she said.
“A few months later, someone snatched my bag again, this time in the Chow Kit area,” she said.
As Sangeetha was then a student, she did not have much cash with her but lost her IC, student card, ATM card, handphone and house keys.
“In the second incident, I was left stranded in the middle of town with no money to go home or handphone to call for help, as I had already lost my handphone in the earlier theft,” she said.
“Thankfully I bumped into a classmate and she gave me money for a cab. It was a hassle to get my lost items replaced. I was still new to Klang Valley then; I didn’t know my way around and didn’t drive,” Sangeetha said.
“I had to pay a fine to get my IC replaced and also pay for a new student card. I also couldn’t withdraw money till I had a new ATM card and didn’t have a handphone for months,” she said.
Since then, Sangeetha has stopped carrying sling bags and does not carry a lot of cash with her.
Victim 3
Multimedia developer Ong Chin Han, 24, was mugged one night at the SS2 commercial centre.
“I was walking along the alley in between a row of terrace houses. A man on a motorcycle rode past me from behind,” he said.
“I had already braced myself for something to happen at the first sound of the motorcycle. But since he rode past me, I let my guard down a bit,” Ong said.
“The motorcyclist turned around and stopped to ask for directions. Since I didn’t know the exact location he wanted, I replied that I didn’t know and headed towards my car,” he said.
“The man then grabbed my shirt with one hand, and gestured with the other that he had a machete, while demanding that I hand over my valuables,” Ong said.
“I lost an old handphone and RM42. I didn’t hand my wallet to him. I merely gave him the money and showed him that I had a totally empty wallet. He even checked my pockets,” he said.
“I used to walk to the mamak stall or bank because my house is near the SS2 commercial centre.
But now when it gets dark, I’d rather take the car or do my errands in the day, although I’m aware that even a short walk to and from the car is an opportunity for robbers to strike,” Ong said.
He advises the public, especially women, to reduce the amount of things they carry, as handbags make them easy targets for snatch thieves.
By The Star, 23rd December 2008 (Tues)
Tips from the victims:
- Be alert and walk against traffic
- Don’t wear or carry expensive things that will catch people’s attention
- Avoid deserted roads or alleys if you are alone
- Carry as little cash as possible, unless you need it, and don’t keep all your cash in the same purse or pocket
- Never carry your purse or wallet in a very visible manner
- Walk confidently, so as not to appear as an easy target
- If your bag is snatched, don’t put up a fight as it is not worth getting hurt.
Victim 1
Graphic designer Adeline Ngui, 26, was unlucky enough to have her belongings snatched twice.
“The first incident happened outside my friend’s house in Damansara Jaya. I was sitting outside the house waiting for a couple of friends when I noticed two foreigners on a motorcycle who were circling the neighbourhood for some time,” she said.
“When the pillion rider got off the motorbike and walked towards me, I presumed that he wanted to ask for directions, until I realised too late that he was eyeing my gold chain,” Ngui said.
“I tried to open the gate to enter the house but the guy pushed me down with one hand and grabbed my chain with the other,” she said. “I was too shocked to shout but I struggled to keep my chain until it broke. I tried to give chase but gave up when I saw the robbers waving a 30cm-long knife at me.”
Ngui had her purse snatched in a second incident a year later at Taman Mayang Jaya. Three passers-by attempted to chase the perpetrator who was on a motorbike but lost him in a basement carpark.
“I suffered a shallow cut in the first incident and lost my IC, cash and ATM cards in the second, which I also reported to the police. The gold chain had more of a sentimental value as it was a gift from my grandmother,” Ngui said.
“I now carry less cash with me and stuff them into my jeans pockets. Unless I know I have something specific to buy, I’ll carry more cash with me, otherwise I won’t have more than RM50,” she said.
Ngui confesses to having a phobia of motorbikers driving slowly or too near, and has vowed never to wear expensive jewellery.
Victim 2
Business development manager N. Sangeetha, 28, also had her bag snatched twice within the same year and both incidents happened in the afternoon.
“I was walking home from college in PJ Old Town when a man on a motorcycle pulled my bag off my shoulder,” Sangeetha said.
“I didn’t fight him as I was alone and didn’t want to be dragged with the motorcycle. I had already reached my rented house and didn’t want him to know where I lived. I wanted to take down the number plate but there was none,” she said.
“A few months later, someone snatched my bag again, this time in the Chow Kit area,” she said.
As Sangeetha was then a student, she did not have much cash with her but lost her IC, student card, ATM card, handphone and house keys.
“In the second incident, I was left stranded in the middle of town with no money to go home or handphone to call for help, as I had already lost my handphone in the earlier theft,” she said.
“Thankfully I bumped into a classmate and she gave me money for a cab. It was a hassle to get my lost items replaced. I was still new to Klang Valley then; I didn’t know my way around and didn’t drive,” Sangeetha said.
“I had to pay a fine to get my IC replaced and also pay for a new student card. I also couldn’t withdraw money till I had a new ATM card and didn’t have a handphone for months,” she said.
Since then, Sangeetha has stopped carrying sling bags and does not carry a lot of cash with her.
Victim 3
Multimedia developer Ong Chin Han, 24, was mugged one night at the SS2 commercial centre.
“I was walking along the alley in between a row of terrace houses. A man on a motorcycle rode past me from behind,” he said.
“I had already braced myself for something to happen at the first sound of the motorcycle. But since he rode past me, I let my guard down a bit,” Ong said.
“The motorcyclist turned around and stopped to ask for directions. Since I didn’t know the exact location he wanted, I replied that I didn’t know and headed towards my car,” he said.
“The man then grabbed my shirt with one hand, and gestured with the other that he had a machete, while demanding that I hand over my valuables,” Ong said.
“I lost an old handphone and RM42. I didn’t hand my wallet to him. I merely gave him the money and showed him that I had a totally empty wallet. He even checked my pockets,” he said.
“I used to walk to the mamak stall or bank because my house is near the SS2 commercial centre.
But now when it gets dark, I’d rather take the car or do my errands in the day, although I’m aware that even a short walk to and from the car is an opportunity for robbers to strike,” Ong said.
He advises the public, especially women, to reduce the amount of things they carry, as handbags make them easy targets for snatch thieves.
Precaution - Snatch Thieves Part I
Victims fall prey to snatch thieves more than once
By The Star, 23rd December 2008 (Tues)
Some people are unlucky that they fall prey to snatch thefts more than once.
Following are two personal accounts of two victims who have been robbed at least four times.
While they consider themselves “lucky” for escaping unharmed or with minor injuries, the experiences have left them paranoid whenever they hear motorcycles approaching.
Case 1
UTAR student Michelle Boon Yih Yoong had to buy new wallets every three months since she moved into Section 17, Petaling Jaya.
So far, she has been a victim of snatch thefts four times this year alone.
“It is rampant here in Section 17. One of my friends was hospitalised for two weeks when she became a victim of snatch theft last year. She missed some important exam papers and even had a short-term memory loss.
“In August, a man snatched my sling bag when I was on my way to Utar. I did not hear him coming. The bag strap snapped and I almost fell.
“As my friend’s house keys were in my bag, we quickly went back to change the locks. It was such a hassle,” said the 22-year-old.
“The officers at the National Registration Department in my hometown could remember me as I had to apply for my MyKad so many times.
She was also robbed in Bukit Bintang. However, she is grateful that she was not seriously injured in the incidents.
“I try not to go out on my own and put my wallet in my pocket instead of in the bag.
“It’s crazy because I will clutch my bag tightly whenever I hear a motorcycle approaching, even if it is far away from me,” she said.
Case 2
Cheah Peng Sim, who lives in SS17 Subang Jaya, was a victim of snatch theft four times since 1998.
She fractured her arm five years ago when she fell prey to snatch thieves.
“It happened in SS15, across from where I stay. They came on a motorcycle and pushed my shoulder, causing my arm to fling in an awkward position, said the 58-year-old homemaker.
She was even robbed in front of her house.
“My friend dropped me off and noticed that the thieves were coming at us on a motorbike. She quickly threw her bag into the car and locked it.
“I tried to throw my bag into the house but it fell into the drain. I was so scared that I just squatted and screamed.
“The pillion rider pushed my head to the ground and went to get my bag from the drain.”
She lodged police reports after each incident as she lost important documents.
“Some people do not bother to lodge a police report as they feel that it is a waste of time,’’ she said.
Due to the incidents, she has now became paranoid but also more alert of her surroundings.
“Nowadays, I hardly carry a handbag and I buy clothes with pockets.
“I hope there will be stricter laws to curb snatch thefts,” she said.
By The Star, 23rd December 2008 (Tues)
Some people are unlucky that they fall prey to snatch thefts more than once.
Following are two personal accounts of two victims who have been robbed at least four times.
While they consider themselves “lucky” for escaping unharmed or with minor injuries, the experiences have left them paranoid whenever they hear motorcycles approaching.
Case 1
UTAR student Michelle Boon Yih Yoong had to buy new wallets every three months since she moved into Section 17, Petaling Jaya.
So far, she has been a victim of snatch thefts four times this year alone.
“It is rampant here in Section 17. One of my friends was hospitalised for two weeks when she became a victim of snatch theft last year. She missed some important exam papers and even had a short-term memory loss.
“In August, a man snatched my sling bag when I was on my way to Utar. I did not hear him coming. The bag strap snapped and I almost fell.
“As my friend’s house keys were in my bag, we quickly went back to change the locks. It was such a hassle,” said the 22-year-old.
“The officers at the National Registration Department in my hometown could remember me as I had to apply for my MyKad so many times.
She was also robbed in Bukit Bintang. However, she is grateful that she was not seriously injured in the incidents.
“I try not to go out on my own and put my wallet in my pocket instead of in the bag.
“It’s crazy because I will clutch my bag tightly whenever I hear a motorcycle approaching, even if it is far away from me,” she said.
Case 2
Cheah Peng Sim, who lives in SS17 Subang Jaya, was a victim of snatch theft four times since 1998.
She fractured her arm five years ago when she fell prey to snatch thieves.
“It happened in SS15, across from where I stay. They came on a motorcycle and pushed my shoulder, causing my arm to fling in an awkward position, said the 58-year-old homemaker.
She was even robbed in front of her house.
“My friend dropped me off and noticed that the thieves were coming at us on a motorbike. She quickly threw her bag into the car and locked it.
“I tried to throw my bag into the house but it fell into the drain. I was so scared that I just squatted and screamed.
“The pillion rider pushed my head to the ground and went to get my bag from the drain.”
She lodged police reports after each incident as she lost important documents.
“Some people do not bother to lodge a police report as they feel that it is a waste of time,’’ she said.
Due to the incidents, she has now became paranoid but also more alert of her surroundings.
“Nowadays, I hardly carry a handbag and I buy clothes with pockets.
“I hope there will be stricter laws to curb snatch thefts,” she said.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Most Unaware of RM250 Limited Liability (Credit Card)
Do you know that you credit card liability is up to RM250 only. Which means, you only need to pay up to RM250 should your stolen credit card are used by others. I personally have seen my friends forking out up to 50% of the amount swiped "illegally".
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Most unaware of RM250 limited liability
From The Star, December 22, 2007.
Cardholders need not pay more than RM250 whenever their lost or stolen credit cards are used by others. Yet, oftentimes, they end up paying much more.
This is because Bank Negara has not informed cardholders that they do not have to pay more than RM250 for fraudulent transactions carried out using their lost or stolen cards, when they had not acted fraudulently and had informed the banks about the lost or stolen cards as soon as possible.
This protection is given under Clause 13.2 of Bank Negara’s Credit Card Guideline (“The cardholder’s maximum liability for unauthorised transactions as a consequence of a lost or stolen credit card shall be confined to a limit specified by the issuer of credit cards, which shall not exceed RM250 provided the cardholder has not acted fraudulently or has not failed to inform the issuer of credit cards as soon as reasonably practicable after having found that his credit card is lost or stolen”).
Banks know about Clause 13.2 but have chosen to ignore it. Instead they pursue cardholders for the fraudulent transactions.
They will tell cardholders that a clause in the credit card contracts states that all transactions carried out before the loss of the cards are reported to the banks, are deemed to be carried out by the cardholders.
Many cardholders then pay up because they are unaware of the RM250 limited liability.
Bank Negara should rule that:
THE RM250 maximum liability on fraudulent transactions is highlighted to cardholders in the card agreements as well as in the monthly card statements.
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Most unaware of RM250 limited liability
From The Star, December 22, 2007.
Cardholders need not pay more than RM250 whenever their lost or stolen credit cards are used by others. Yet, oftentimes, they end up paying much more.
This is because Bank Negara has not informed cardholders that they do not have to pay more than RM250 for fraudulent transactions carried out using their lost or stolen cards, when they had not acted fraudulently and had informed the banks about the lost or stolen cards as soon as possible.
This protection is given under Clause 13.2 of Bank Negara’s Credit Card Guideline (“The cardholder’s maximum liability for unauthorised transactions as a consequence of a lost or stolen credit card shall be confined to a limit specified by the issuer of credit cards, which shall not exceed RM250 provided the cardholder has not acted fraudulently or has not failed to inform the issuer of credit cards as soon as reasonably practicable after having found that his credit card is lost or stolen”).
Banks know about Clause 13.2 but have chosen to ignore it. Instead they pursue cardholders for the fraudulent transactions.
They will tell cardholders that a clause in the credit card contracts states that all transactions carried out before the loss of the cards are reported to the banks, are deemed to be carried out by the cardholders.
Many cardholders then pay up because they are unaware of the RM250 limited liability.
Bank Negara should rule that:
THE RM250 maximum liability on fraudulent transactions is highlighted to cardholders in the card agreements as well as in the monthly card statements.
- BANKS are not allowed to insert any clause in the card agreement which is contrary to Clause 13.2.
- BANKS should refund all money in excess of the RM250 collected from cardholders whose cases clearly come under Clause 13.2.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Canal Gardens Residents' AGM Minutes
MINUTES OF CANAL GARDENS RESIDENTS’ ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
HELD ON 12 OCTOBER 2008
Krishnan Jr, the Chairman for Canal Gardens Residents Committee (CGRC) 2008/09 called the meeting to order at 8.30 pm. He thanked the current CGRC members for a job well done.
Minutes of last AGM held on 28 October 2007
Item 6 of minutes should read as:
Mr Lau of 16L mentioned that we should evaluate before deciding to take over the management of the Gardens. This issue will be deliberated by the new CGRC members at their next meeting.
The previous minutes were then proposed, seconded and deemed as passed.
Canal Rectification Works
Krishnan Jr informed the meeting that the CGRC is unhappy with the developer, Hicom-Gamuda Development Sdn Bhd (HGD) for the delay in the rectification works of the canal resulting in a bad stench during hot weather. CGRC members have had meetings with both HGD and Majlis Bandaran Shah Alam (MBSA) on the canal issue from March 2008 – 24 June 2008. Initially HGD had agreed to proceed with the rectification works by building floodgates but on 30 June 2008, HGD expressed their rejection on doing so to MBSA. MBSA had then agreed to take on the responsibility of building the floodgates by using the deposit obtained from HGD. MBSA is currently calling for tenders and rectification works should begin on the first week of December 2008. We shall keep residents informed of developments via our Canal Gardens blog and the notice board.
Persatuan Penduduk Kota Kemuning (PPKK)
Krishnan Jr stressed the importance of being a member of PPKK; PPKK with the relevant authorities has managed to stop the sand lorries from plying the Kota Kemuning area and it has lent a hand in the following issues with regards to Canal Gardens:
1) Canal rectification works
2) Basketball court lights changed
3) Street lights changed to a higher voltage. Currently, these street lights are changed on an alternate sequence but all lights will be changed from 70w to 150w by 2009
4) Unhealthy and dead trees have been replaced with 200 new ones
Residents were encouraged to join or renew their memberships at the registration desk set up.
Financial Position of CGRC accounts
Kenny Khow, our Treasurer briefed the meeting.
Currently, we have approximately RM11,000 in our CGRC fund which is derived from the monthly recycling collections, Family Day and Golf Tournament. From this fund, we have issued a cheque amounting to RM1,000 as donation towards SJK © Chung Hua Klang. We have also purchased 2 units of reflector mirrors as well as a sound system unit for future events.
As for the Audited Accounts from HGD which was received 3 days prior to the Annual General Meeting although we have requested for same for months. CGRC had also requested for HGD’s auditors to be present for any queries but to no avail.
Since there is no representation from HGD or their auditors, residents who have any queries with regards to the audited accounts ending 31 March 2008 are to directly write to HGD Property Services Sdn Bhd or visit their office.
Paul Leong, 35R voiced the following issues:
1) HGD has made no effort to spruce up the vicinity before the AGM which they have done previously. Are they no longer interested?
2) Auditors should be available to present the Audited Accounts and answer queries
3) Dengue cases – regular fogging
4) Suggestion for barbeque pit
5) Recycling – residents should try their best to contribute recyclable items as well as volunteer their time on the first Sunday of each month as the proceeds from the sales will go directly to the CGRC account for the organizing of events for residents
Social and Sports Update
Steven Lim, the current Head of Sports briefed the meeting.
1) Volunteers for Head of Social which is currently vacant, previously held by Mrs Lily Wong who has since left for the US
2) Line Dancing for the ladies ongoing every Monday at RM30 per month with practice session on Thusrdays
3) Martial Arts practice every morning
4) Recycling – first Sunday of each month. We would like to request for more volunteers to assist on the recycling day as well as more contributions in recyclable items
5) Golf – yearly event, next one 2009
6) Family Day – once in two years, next one in 2010
7) Home Gardening contest – once in two years, next one in 2009
8) Forthcoming events: a) cycling day (family event), b) gotong royong, c) Tai Chi
9) Residents walking their dogs to kindly ensure that their pets’ waste is properly taken care of.
Security
There were a few comments/complaints from the floor on the following:
1) runaway maids
2) noisy dogs
3) entry and exit of visitors/contractors/others
4) security as a whole – slacking
Brandon briefed the meeting:
A SOP on security has already been given by HGD and all residents are required to give their full cooperation to ensure that the SOP works. If we want to have good security, we must ensure that we as residents also play a responsible role as follows:
1) Follow the SOP
2) Ensure that we as residents gain access into Canal Gardens by using the access cards and all of us should have the 2008/09 stickers on our windscreens
3) Visitors/contractors are required to register at the guardhouse after which the guards will give them a Visitors Placard to be placed at their dashboards and to be returned upon exit
4) For any reports of missing maids, theft – to report to the Police and complete the incident report forms at the guardhouse for the Security Company’s action and follow ups
5) Noisy and unfriendly dogs – speak to your neighbours directly on the problem; this will also improve your rapport
6) Residents are encouraged not to speed, take a complete turn at the roundabout and not to drive across or park on the turfs
CGRC has given the Security Company 45 days grace to improve on their slackness and should there not be any progress, CGRC will inform HGD for a replacement.
The proposals given by residents on improving security – automation, wireless communication between the guardhouse and individual homes and security measures similar to the one practised in Bukit Rimau will be discussed with HGD and the Security Company.
Canal Gardens Residents Association (CGRA)
JT Chong, our Legal Advisor briefed the meeting.
At present the CGRC is not legal and it has no proper standing when handling matters with HGD or the authorities. Whereas, a Residents Association (RA) is:
1) Permanent and legal. It involves membership fee collections, conducting of yearly audits
2) As it is permanent and long term, a RA requires residents commitment
3) A RA is a common trend nowadays working as a pressure group to make it easier to raise issues with the developer and authorities. Quality of service to residents will hence improve
4) RA must be registered if we want to take over the management of Canal Gardens where we can either appoint our own management company or appoint full-time staff who are reporting to us
5) Acording to the Deed of Mutual Consent (DMC), we must get the consent of HGD to take over the management of Canal Gardens as it involves the collection of maintenance fees and sinking fund. Also according to the DMC, HGD can at anytime revoke the decision and for the management of Canal Gardens to be returned to them
The Township Manager, Tony Ooi has mentioned to Krishnan Jr that HGD have plans on passing over the management of Canal Gardens to the CGRC. Therefore, CGRC would like to request for a decision by residents present on whether to register the CGRA by a show of hands on the following:
1) Yes, to register and set up
2) No because we can still continue using PPKK to liaise with both HGD and the authorities
3) To KIV, as we need time to consider
There was a show of hands on items 1-3 above and the numbers are as follows:
1) 70 )
2) 46 ) 121 present
3) 5 )
CGRC to proceed with the registration of the CGRA as soon as possible.
Questions raised before the count and answered by JT Chong:
Is there a need for a quorum for the decision of registering a CGRA?
Legally, we do not require approval of the residents at this meeting to register the RA. What is required is that the pro-tem committee which presently comprises the CGRC members pass a resolution to register a RA, which the CGRC had already done prior to this residents’ meeting. We merely want the residents to endorse and support the decision of the protem committee to form the RA in order to lend greater moral ground when the RA deals with HGD.
Are there any implications when we sell our houses?
No, you as a house-owner may sell your house at any time regardless of whether you are a RA member. Your capacity as a house-owner is different from your capacity as a member of RA. A RA member pays membership subscription fees to the RA. A house-owner must continue to pay monthly maintenance charges and sinking fund to HGD under the DMC, regardless of whether he is a member of RA.
How do we get out of the DMC?
When we sell and are no longer owners of the property.
Other Matters
1) Notice board will be used for minutes of CGRC meetings and newsletters from both CGRC and HGD
2) Residents are welcome to attend any monthly CGRC meetings, check with your respective road representatives for the dates
3) Collection of donation for the CGRC fund from residents present is RM1,169.00
4) Canal Gardens T-shirt sale @ RM25 per piece available
There being no other matters, the meeting ended at 10.45 pm.
Minuted by: Sonia Tait, Secretary, Canal Gardens Residents Committee
HELD ON 12 OCTOBER 2008
Krishnan Jr, the Chairman for Canal Gardens Residents Committee (CGRC) 2008/09 called the meeting to order at 8.30 pm. He thanked the current CGRC members for a job well done.
Minutes of last AGM held on 28 October 2007
Item 6 of minutes should read as:
Mr Lau of 16L mentioned that we should evaluate before deciding to take over the management of the Gardens. This issue will be deliberated by the new CGRC members at their next meeting.
The previous minutes were then proposed, seconded and deemed as passed.
Canal Rectification Works
Krishnan Jr informed the meeting that the CGRC is unhappy with the developer, Hicom-Gamuda Development Sdn Bhd (HGD) for the delay in the rectification works of the canal resulting in a bad stench during hot weather. CGRC members have had meetings with both HGD and Majlis Bandaran Shah Alam (MBSA) on the canal issue from March 2008 – 24 June 2008. Initially HGD had agreed to proceed with the rectification works by building floodgates but on 30 June 2008, HGD expressed their rejection on doing so to MBSA. MBSA had then agreed to take on the responsibility of building the floodgates by using the deposit obtained from HGD. MBSA is currently calling for tenders and rectification works should begin on the first week of December 2008. We shall keep residents informed of developments via our Canal Gardens blog and the notice board.
Persatuan Penduduk Kota Kemuning (PPKK)
Krishnan Jr stressed the importance of being a member of PPKK; PPKK with the relevant authorities has managed to stop the sand lorries from plying the Kota Kemuning area and it has lent a hand in the following issues with regards to Canal Gardens:
1) Canal rectification works
2) Basketball court lights changed
3) Street lights changed to a higher voltage. Currently, these street lights are changed on an alternate sequence but all lights will be changed from 70w to 150w by 2009
4) Unhealthy and dead trees have been replaced with 200 new ones
Residents were encouraged to join or renew their memberships at the registration desk set up.
Financial Position of CGRC accounts
Kenny Khow, our Treasurer briefed the meeting.
Currently, we have approximately RM11,000 in our CGRC fund which is derived from the monthly recycling collections, Family Day and Golf Tournament. From this fund, we have issued a cheque amounting to RM1,000 as donation towards SJK © Chung Hua Klang. We have also purchased 2 units of reflector mirrors as well as a sound system unit for future events.
As for the Audited Accounts from HGD which was received 3 days prior to the Annual General Meeting although we have requested for same for months. CGRC had also requested for HGD’s auditors to be present for any queries but to no avail.
Since there is no representation from HGD or their auditors, residents who have any queries with regards to the audited accounts ending 31 March 2008 are to directly write to HGD Property Services Sdn Bhd or visit their office.
Paul Leong, 35R voiced the following issues:
1) HGD has made no effort to spruce up the vicinity before the AGM which they have done previously. Are they no longer interested?
2) Auditors should be available to present the Audited Accounts and answer queries
3) Dengue cases – regular fogging
4) Suggestion for barbeque pit
5) Recycling – residents should try their best to contribute recyclable items as well as volunteer their time on the first Sunday of each month as the proceeds from the sales will go directly to the CGRC account for the organizing of events for residents
Social and Sports Update
Steven Lim, the current Head of Sports briefed the meeting.
1) Volunteers for Head of Social which is currently vacant, previously held by Mrs Lily Wong who has since left for the US
2) Line Dancing for the ladies ongoing every Monday at RM30 per month with practice session on Thusrdays
3) Martial Arts practice every morning
4) Recycling – first Sunday of each month. We would like to request for more volunteers to assist on the recycling day as well as more contributions in recyclable items
5) Golf – yearly event, next one 2009
6) Family Day – once in two years, next one in 2010
7) Home Gardening contest – once in two years, next one in 2009
8) Forthcoming events: a) cycling day (family event), b) gotong royong, c) Tai Chi
9) Residents walking their dogs to kindly ensure that their pets’ waste is properly taken care of.
Security
There were a few comments/complaints from the floor on the following:
1) runaway maids
2) noisy dogs
3) entry and exit of visitors/contractors/others
4) security as a whole – slacking
Brandon briefed the meeting:
A SOP on security has already been given by HGD and all residents are required to give their full cooperation to ensure that the SOP works. If we want to have good security, we must ensure that we as residents also play a responsible role as follows:
1) Follow the SOP
2) Ensure that we as residents gain access into Canal Gardens by using the access cards and all of us should have the 2008/09 stickers on our windscreens
3) Visitors/contractors are required to register at the guardhouse after which the guards will give them a Visitors Placard to be placed at their dashboards and to be returned upon exit
4) For any reports of missing maids, theft – to report to the Police and complete the incident report forms at the guardhouse for the Security Company’s action and follow ups
5) Noisy and unfriendly dogs – speak to your neighbours directly on the problem; this will also improve your rapport
6) Residents are encouraged not to speed, take a complete turn at the roundabout and not to drive across or park on the turfs
CGRC has given the Security Company 45 days grace to improve on their slackness and should there not be any progress, CGRC will inform HGD for a replacement.
The proposals given by residents on improving security – automation, wireless communication between the guardhouse and individual homes and security measures similar to the one practised in Bukit Rimau will be discussed with HGD and the Security Company.
Canal Gardens Residents Association (CGRA)
JT Chong, our Legal Advisor briefed the meeting.
At present the CGRC is not legal and it has no proper standing when handling matters with HGD or the authorities. Whereas, a Residents Association (RA) is:
1) Permanent and legal. It involves membership fee collections, conducting of yearly audits
2) As it is permanent and long term, a RA requires residents commitment
3) A RA is a common trend nowadays working as a pressure group to make it easier to raise issues with the developer and authorities. Quality of service to residents will hence improve
4) RA must be registered if we want to take over the management of Canal Gardens where we can either appoint our own management company or appoint full-time staff who are reporting to us
5) Acording to the Deed of Mutual Consent (DMC), we must get the consent of HGD to take over the management of Canal Gardens as it involves the collection of maintenance fees and sinking fund. Also according to the DMC, HGD can at anytime revoke the decision and for the management of Canal Gardens to be returned to them
The Township Manager, Tony Ooi has mentioned to Krishnan Jr that HGD have plans on passing over the management of Canal Gardens to the CGRC. Therefore, CGRC would like to request for a decision by residents present on whether to register the CGRA by a show of hands on the following:
1) Yes, to register and set up
2) No because we can still continue using PPKK to liaise with both HGD and the authorities
3) To KIV, as we need time to consider
There was a show of hands on items 1-3 above and the numbers are as follows:
1) 70 )
2) 46 ) 121 present
3) 5 )
CGRC to proceed with the registration of the CGRA as soon as possible.
Questions raised before the count and answered by JT Chong:
Is there a need for a quorum for the decision of registering a CGRA?
Legally, we do not require approval of the residents at this meeting to register the RA. What is required is that the pro-tem committee which presently comprises the CGRC members pass a resolution to register a RA, which the CGRC had already done prior to this residents’ meeting. We merely want the residents to endorse and support the decision of the protem committee to form the RA in order to lend greater moral ground when the RA deals with HGD.
Are there any implications when we sell our houses?
No, you as a house-owner may sell your house at any time regardless of whether you are a RA member. Your capacity as a house-owner is different from your capacity as a member of RA. A RA member pays membership subscription fees to the RA. A house-owner must continue to pay monthly maintenance charges and sinking fund to HGD under the DMC, regardless of whether he is a member of RA.
How do we get out of the DMC?
When we sell and are no longer owners of the property.
Other Matters
1) Notice board will be used for minutes of CGRC meetings and newsletters from both CGRC and HGD
2) Residents are welcome to attend any monthly CGRC meetings, check with your respective road representatives for the dates
3) Collection of donation for the CGRC fund from residents present is RM1,169.00
4) Canal Gardens T-shirt sale @ RM25 per piece available
There being no other matters, the meeting ended at 10.45 pm.
Minuted by: Sonia Tait, Secretary, Canal Gardens Residents Committee
Recycling Day - December 2008
A very BIG THANK YOU to all the residents who took the trouble to turn up with the recycables. This is a long weekend and most of the folks are also busy preparing for the year end festivals ... Yet we collected around RM500 plus.
Moving forward, our recycling center will be manned by our recycling contractors, from 10am to 3pm. However, in order to continue to be a platform for our residents as a "get-to-know" and "info sharing" session, the committee members will still be around helping with the unloading of your recycables, albeit in smaller numbers.
We would also urge residents to come and help in the manning our recycling centre, especially from 1 pm to 3 pm, so that we can also supervise the weighing of the materials.
Moving forward, our recycling center will be manned by our recycling contractors, from 10am to 3pm. However, in order to continue to be a platform for our residents as a "get-to-know" and "info sharing" session, the committee members will still be around helping with the unloading of your recycables, albeit in smaller numbers.
We would also urge residents to come and help in the manning our recycling centre, especially from 1 pm to 3 pm, so that we can also supervise the weighing of the materials.
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