Residents’ associations should not just function as a conduit between local councils and residents, or act solely as decision-makers in neighbourhoods.
In an ideal neighbourhood, activities organised by these associations help enhance the quality of life for residents. They also play a pivotal role in planning for future communities.
Datuk M. Ali believes more can be done to encourage youths to be a part of residents’ associations or participate in their activities.
Ali, who is adviser to the Bukit Bandaraya Residents’ Association, said that while it was common for home buyers in the past to join these associations, this culture was no longer apparent.
“Back in the 70s and 80s, people would join RAs when they moved into a new neighbourhood. But these days, it’s not easy to get people, especially those aged below 50, to join us,” Ali said.
“We want RAs, non-government organisations, and community-based organisations to come forward to stand together, as our voices will then be stronger,” he said.
He added while people seemed to have a lot to say, they tend to shy away when asked to step forward. The lack of time, according to 69-year-old Ali, is often the excuse given.
“People must realise that someone else cannot be solving and looking into your problems all the time. If you do not help yourself, no one is going to help you.”
“Before you change your government, try to change your community first,’’ said Ali, who is also chairman of Selamatkan Kuala Lumpur, a civil society movement comprising over 30 residents’ associations in the federal capital.
He shared that while the Bukit Bandaraya Residents’ Association has several committee members who are in their early 40s, he admitted that the numbers were still low.
“There appears to be many social distractions. Catching up with friends over food and drinks, or snapping food pictures and posting them on social media should not be the only way to socialise.
“Many youths are enthusiastic about national-level politics, but they tend to only rant on social media. When you ask them to get out of their comfort zone and get involved in activities in their own back yard, they are just not interested.”
Besides gotong-royong, recycling projects, excursions and jumble sales, Ali said the Bukit Bandaraya Residents’ Association have, for the last 10 years, been organising a 5km fellowship walk twice a month where everyone, including children, is welcome.
“We have been walking for over the last 10 years and we encourage all Bangsarians to join us.
“After the walk, we would adjourn for brunch where the meal is paid for by the residents’ association. We tell participants they are most welcome to contribute any amount to the RA’s kitty so that others too, would get to enjoy meals when they go walking with us.”
RAs are not just for the old
Just like Ali, Medan Damansara Residents’ Association president Peter Raiappan said seniors alone should not be the ones taking up membership in residents’ associations.
“There should also be activities for all age groups to encourage the younger members to join. Activities need to appeal to not just one segment.
“I want to see the second generation, especially the younger ones, take part. But because our neighbourhood is an ageing community, we don’t have many young ones around,” said the 79-year-old Raiappan, who added that even those in their 40s and 50s are not all that excited about getting involved in community affairs.
“I suppose it is part of modern-day culture. They are more interested in social media … including making TikTok videos. They don’t seem to be interested in community service,” he said.
He added that having a common interest was perhaps a push factor for people to get involved in their communities.
“When we bought our houses here, we were all government, or ex-government servants. There was a sense of comradeship. But now, most house buyers here are those from the private sector. I suppose the job demands in the private sector can also take a toll (on time and commitment),” he shared.
“In those days, children used to play football or badminton together. Now I realise they are playing football, but are not playing with people from the same geographical area … perhaps there are lesser uniting factors these days.”
Raiappan added more should be done to encourage locals to participate in local community events.
He also shared that while 20 to 30 per cent of those in his RA are in their 30s and 40s, the present set-up consists mainly of elder folk.
“There is, however, a sprinkling of younger people. But perhaps, they need to have a sense of belonging… we intend to get more of the younger generation on board,” he said.
“The RA has mooted the setting up of a youth committee, which has excited some of the younger ones. It would be nice to see skits by the youths, or even watch them organise a fashion competition with local themes, or get children involved in greening the community.”
It’s all about making community associations exciting
T. Gowry, who has three children aged 19, 17, and 13, said joining RAs can help children improve their soft skills.
“I believe children should spend time outdoors. It’s not just about scoring straight As.
“They must learn to mingle and organise activities for their community, as they will also pick up organisational and communication skills,” said Gowry, who formerly served as Medan Damansara Residents’ Association secretary.
She shared that while young children may say that they don’t find neighbourhood activities interesting, parents must continue to encourage and give their kids exposure.
Gowry’s 19-year-old daughter B. Sarrmiin, who is studying for her A-Levels in Kolej Yayasan UEM, said she loves the neighbourhood a lot.
“Growing up here, I owe a lot to my neighbours as they were very helpful when I needed help, especially with my homework.
“I don’t get to spend much time here now, as I am away for studies. Perhaps, when I return for good, I will try to do my part for the RA,” she said.
Sarrmiin, along with her siblings Loghan, 17, from SMK Damansara Jaya, and Dhiyanah Shri, 15, from SMK Sri Hartamas, were met recently during Medan Damansara Residents’ Association’s Family Day event in conjunction with Malaysia Day.
The event was also attended by Segambut MP Hannah Yeoh.
The activities held during the celebration included the hoisting of the Jalur Gemilang, a quiz, and a flea market, which was set in the neighbourhood playground.
