DBKL targets disposal of 1,200 abandoned vehicles this year

 Mayor Fadlun Mak Ujud says the initiative with Carmedic Sdn Bhd includes towing, storage and voluntary disposal.

DBKL said it towed over 4,500 vehicles between 2022 and 2025 following more than 9,600 complaints about abandoned and obstructive vehicles. (Bernama pic)

KUALA LUMPUR:

 Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) is aiming to dispose of 1,200 abandoned vehicles across the capital this year as part of increased enforcement to tackle the long-standing urban issue.

DBKL mayor Fadlun Mak Ujud said the initiative is being carried out with Carmedic Sdn Bhd, which was appointed via an open tender in February.

He said Carmedic handles towing and removal operations, logistics and storage, sustainable disposal, as well as voluntary disposal programmes in DBKL public housing and strata areas.

“For now, we have appointed Carmedic for a period of three years. If there is a need, we may appoint additional companies,” he told reporters at the Pantai Ria people’s housing project (PPR) here.

Fadlun said the problem had worsened over time, with more than 4,500 vehicles towed from over 9,600 complaints between 2022 and 2025. So far this year, 768 vehicles have been disposed of.

He added that depot capacity remains sufficient for now, although Carmedic is identifying additional sites if needed to store towed vehicles.

Also present at the press conference was Lembah Pantai MP Fahmi Fadzil, who said the issue of abandoned vehicles is widespread, particularly in densely populated areas such as the Pantai Ria PPR.

“In some locations, there are between 100 and 150 abandoned vehicles, including motorcycles,” he said, adding that some had been turned into storage spaces.

Fahmi, who is the communications minister, also said such vehicles posed health risks and contributed to congestion, adding that solutions should also address parking shortages.

Federal territories minister Hannah Yeoh, who was also present, welcomed the move, describing it as a necessary step to resolve everyday issues faced by residents across Kuala Lumpur.

The Segambut MP said the problem affected both public housing and landed residential areas and expressed hope that more residents would come forward to voluntarily dispose of their vehicles under the programme. - FMT