A lively carnival celebrating Malaysia Day brought together residents of Mutiara Damansara at the Jalan PJU 7/11 playground in Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Organized by the Mutiara Damansara Community Social and Recreation Association, the event fostered community spirit and highlighted efforts to improve local amenities.

Held recently, the carnival attracted families, children, senior citizens, and officials, including representatives from the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ), the police, Fire and Rescue Department, as well as the National Unity and National Integration Department. The event featured a variety of activities, including patriotic singing sessions and children’s games, emphasizing unity among the neighborhood’s diverse residents.

Local culinary favorites such as satay, cendol, rojak, kuih, apam balik, masala tea, and burgers were served, providing a communal dining experience. Organizers noted that the celebration underscored the importance of fostering unity starting at the community level.

MBPJ councillor Danny Chan provided attendees with updates on recent neighborhood enhancements, the result of collaboration between residents, MBPJ, and local community committees. Improvements included resolving persistent ponding issues at the playground, installation of new gym equipment, and rubber matting suitable for both children and senior citizens. Additionally, the walkway surrounding the playground was extended to encourage walking and jogging, and maintenance on a nearby walkway at PJU 7/7 was completed using funds from a previous RM50,000 project allocation. Further upgrades to walkways and community facilities are planned to enhance accessibility and usability.

As part of the program, event sponsor JomCharge partnered with the Fire and Rescue Department to present an electric vehicle (EV) safety talk and demonstration. This initiative aimed to educate residents about safe EV charging practices. Attendees also had the opportunity to experience rides on a fire truck, fostering a relaxed interaction between firefighters and the community.

In a first for the neighborhood celebration, JomCharge used its electric vehicles to power a portion of the carnival through Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology. This demonstration highlighted how EVs can provide electricity to external devices, promoting more environmentally friendly community events, according to the association.

Guest of honor Bukit Lanjan assemblyman Pua Pei Ling announced plans to break ground on a new community hall, with construction targeted to begin before Chinese New Year. The proposed hall aims to offer residents additional space for gatherings and activities, complementing existing outdoor areas.

The event concluded with residents joining in patriotic songs, reflecting the festive and unifying spirit of Malaysia Day.