By Media Selangor Team
SHAH ALAM, Jan 5 — Food courts under the Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) will undergo phased upgrading and refurbishment works this year, with allocations of up to RM10 million over the next three to five years to improve infrastructure, cleanliness and safety.
MPAJ deputy president Hasrolnizam Shaari said the move was timely, as most of the food courts were built more than two decades ago and required upgrading to remain functional and relevant.
While acknowledging that food courts may no longer generate strong financial returns amid competition from kiosks, food trucks, shopping mall eateries and food delivery services, he said their social role remained significant.
“Many segments of the community continue to rely on these food courts, which have their own identity and serve as affordable dining and gathering spaces.
“We do not want to let these food courts die out.
“They are necessary, especially for lower-income groups, as they offer balanced meals and places for people to come together,” he said as reported by StarMetro.
Hasrolnizam said the council was not pursuing large-scale redevelopment but would instead focus on targeted upgrades to ensure facilities remained clean and safe.
He stated that between RM5 million and RM10 million had been set aside through improved budget management over the past three years, including allocations for community halls.
He also said the council could not shut down the food court, as it continues to attract visitors and support local traders.
“We recognise that it still draws people and provides a place for Ampang Jaya traders to earn a living,” he said, adding that MPAJ currently manages 15 food courts.
The first facility slated for upgrading is Medan Selera Lama Taman Melawati.
Other food courts identified for upgrading are located along Jalan Kolam Air Lama, as well as in Lembah Jaya, Pandan Indah and Teratai.
