By Sofia Nasir
HULU SELANGOR, May 3 — Selangor has paved the way in providing free transit services at public libraries via the launch of the Friendly Transit Library (Perpustakaan Mesra Transit) initiative today.
Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari said the effort by the Selangor Public Library Corporation (PPAS) helps working parents by enabling public libraries to become a second home for their children.
"This realises the state government's desire to make public libraries a second home for children.
"It will provide a conducive environment for children, especially during the transition between school sessions, as well as a temporary resting place," he said.
Amirudin was speaking at the renaming ceremony of Perpustakaan Syed Mashor in Kuala Kubu Baharu today. Also in attendance was PPAS director Datin Paduka Mastura Muhammad.
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Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari (centre right) observes locals engaging in arts and crafts during the renaming ceremony of Perpustakaan Syed Mashor in Kuala Kubu Baharu, Hulu Selangor, on May 3, 2024. — Picture by MOHD KHAIRUL HELMY MOHD DIN/SELANGORKINI[/caption]
The library, named after the distinguished Malay hero in the Klang War of 1867 to 1874, was upgraded for RM3.25 million and began operating in October 2022.
On her part, Mastura said the Friendly Transit Library project had been implemented at the PPAS Bukit Bangkong in Sepang last year, which was met with an encouraging response from the surrounding community.
As such, the project will be carried out at 12 selected libraries throughout Selangor, involving five district libraries and seven branch libraries.
"When it comes to food at these transit facilities, we will focus on parents who are less financially capable. For those who can afford it, we encourage them to contribute, as we also accept public donations.
"The concept is simple. We just add new value so these libraries function for everyone regardless of their background," she said.
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Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari (second from right) at a local resident's home which was damaged by a recent storm, during his visit to the Tun Abdul Razak Orang Asli village in Kuala Kubu Baharu, Hulu Selangor, on May 3, 2024. — Picture by FIKRI YUSOF/SELANGORKINI[/caption]
Later on, the Menteri Besar visited the Tun Abdul Razak Orang Asli village in Kuala Kubu Baharu.
His arrival was greeted by around 500 Orang Asli residents of various ages, before he led the congregational Asar prayer.
Amirudin also visited an Orang Asli residence with roof damage caused by a recent storm.
Village chairman Amizan Silai thanked the Menteri Besar for visiting the half-century old settlement.
"The presence of the Dato’ Menteri Besar was actually quite surprising as we were only informed this morning. This is an opportunity to meet and interact with him.
"Thank you for gracing our village with your presence," he said when asked by SelangorKini.
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Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari (front, second from left) speaking to local residents during his visit to the Tun Abdul Razak Orang Asli village in Kuala Kubu Baharu, Hulu Selangor, on May 3, 2024. — Picture by FIKRI YUSOF/SELANGORKINI[/caption]
