Transit Malaysia Supports Plan To Pedestrianise Jalan Bukit Bintang

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 8 (Bernama) -- Transit Malaysia strongly supports the idea of pedestrianising Jalan Bukit Bintang.

The NGO in a statement today said currently, the street experienced daily congestion due to private vehicles being parked on the side of the three-lane road with road traffic often coming to a standstill during peak periods such as weekends or evenings when private vehicle movement in the city centre is high.

"By redesigning to accommodate more people travelling to Bukit Bintang by foot or public transportation, Jalan Bukit Bintang will retain its energy, no matter the traffic situation," said the NGO.

The proposal by the authorities aims to reduce traffic congestion by limiting private vehicle access and prioritising pedestrians, making the area safer and more vibrant.

In supporting the plan, the group also suggests redesigning the Jalan Bukit Bintang-Sultan Ismail intersection to allow pedestrians to cross from all angles at more frequent intervals, as well as introducing bus-only lanes to improve public transport accessibility.

Adding to the statement, Transit Malaysia also believes that increasing pedestrian space could boost business growth in the area.

"The area is already well-served by public transport, with connections to the MRT Kajang Line, KL Monorail Line, and several GoKL bus routes. 

"The popular elevated walkway to KLCC also helps to bolster the pedestrian connection between two of KLs major attractions. Altogether, these provide ample connections to other parts of the city and the wider Klang Valley," said the group.

While Transit Malaysia supports the initiative, it acknowledged the concerns of local businesses that relied on vehicle access and urged Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL) to engage with stakeholders to address these concerns.

-- BERNAMA