Residents in Puchong are calling on the Selangor government for clearer explanations regarding a proposed residential project near Ayer Hitam Forest Reserve. Many say they were unaware that land next to the forest had long been removed from protected status.
On Dec 16, 2025, the state government announced that 68.4 hectares of land had been degazetted from the forest reserve in 1926, meaning it had not been under permanent forest protection for a century. However, residents claim they were never informed about the degazettement, ownership transfers, or any development intentions.
The project first came to light during a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) briefing on Nov 14, 2025. For many locals, this was the first indication that the land had been sold and planned for development.
Early information suggested the project might include commercial shoplots and over 2,700 condominium units, including Rumah Selangorku homes. However, Kinrara assemblyman Ng Sze Han later clarified that the proposal was for residential development only.
He explained that the SIA was still at a preliminary stage and that a physical Focus Group Discussion (FGD) would be required to ensure proper consultation with affected communities. An earlier online FGD would not be accepted as part of the official process.
Meanwhile, Subang Jaya City Council (MBSJ) confirmed it has not received any formal planning application for the project. Authorities also highlighted that the site falls within a Class 3 slope category, with gradients between 25 and 35 degrees. Such areas require strict technical studies and geotechnical assessments before approval. Slopes exceeding 35 degrees (Class 4) are not permitted for housing projects.
Residents from nearby neighbourhoods — including Bandar Kinrara, Rimba Residence, Sierra Residency, Taman Puncak Kinrara, and several apartment complexes — were invited to participate in the SIA exercise.
Preliminary documents showed that the proposed site is located next to a Muslim cemetery, near SJK(C) Kheng Chee, and close to several residential areas, raising further environmental and safety concerns among the community.
Source: thestar
2026-02-18T16:00:00Z