GET IT FIXED!
Malaysia,
Specifically KL-Subang Jaya,
It's my home. I travelled to-and-fro for work, my social life is within KL and Klang Valley area. So far, it's been a privilege to be raised here. Diverse environment, good public transport, plenty of entertainment. However, it's not perfect. And it needs plenty of improvement.
When I think of cities, I used to think of skyscrapers, technological advancements. Now, I think of cities as advanced and accessible, with historical essence. This is partly due to my exposure as an international student in UK*.
Whether if it's visiting London for Winter Wonderland, or the daily commute to university, or even the yearly visit to my friend's place outside of London and Bath, using ride-share apps are the last thing to do, as the buses or walking there are easier or cheaper. It'll be really great to see KL, Subang Jaya, and every Malaysian cities to be as pedestrial-friendly as New York City, Singapore, Amsterdam, etc.
Granted, due to many internal factors (and the fact that colonialism kinda result in UK cities having better infrastructure that the country the British Empire has colonised..), we still have a long way to go. But without further ado, here's some stuff that I believe would make KL/Subang Jaya to be more pedestrian friendly. (only use those two because that's where I'm from)
1. More frequent buses.
Since returning home, I've been using the bus to head home. The buses are cold, and even during off-peak times the bus would be full before I reached home. According to Moovit, the waiting time is 40 minutes. Of course, buses are not entirely to blame. During peak times, the roads would be filled by cars and bus stops would be filled by cars because people from train station would either order Grab or call someone to pick them up. With that being said, increased frequency from 40 minutes to 20 minutes might improve the city's quality.
NB: I'm not sure if RapidKL buses have amenities for people in wheelchair to go in, but I hope they have.
2. Better walking path.
While Kuala Lumpur promotes the fact that it's pedestrian-friendly, it's still incredibly car-centric. The roads are scary and full of cars with little guide to cross, and walkable paths available aren't welcoming. Pedestrian lights should be well-maintained, especially for area where the foot traffic is higher such as tourist spots, corporate office/school areas. Furthermore, avoid putting crosswalks at the length of roads of two different directions (unless it's short).
The footpaths should also be clear for the people to feel safe to walk at. It should also be safe for everyone, including women, elderly and disabled. The pathway should be well-lit at night, and enough space/time for the elderly and disabled to cross.
3. Accessible for all.
According to Statista, Malaysia could be an ageing population by 2030. Elderlies are still people. They don't just stay at home. Some still travel for work (which sucks if they have to), to see people, and live their lives. This also means more people in wheelchairs, which means the amenities available needs to be accessible for that. What does it mean? Ramps, elevators, bigger sidewalks, bigger parking space for them, and more.
