PETALING JAYA, June 5 — Petaling Jaya has marked its 20th year as a city, with its local authority having launched various free facilities and programmes for the anniversary as a sign of appreciation to its residents who helped develop the town.
Petaling Jaya Mayor Dato’ Mohamad Zahri Samingon said the celebration from June 16 to 21 won’t just recognise the city’s achievements as a developed, sustainable area, but aims to encourage community involvement through myriad activities.
The Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ), according to him, has prepared six free services for the celebration, including parking, Petaling Jaya Community Library membership, saplings, organic compost, and abate (Aedes mosquito larvicide).
“Besides free services, 11 main programmes have been planned to benefit various segments of the community, encompassing the aspects of learning, digitalisation, environmental sustainability, health, culture, and community development,” Zahri said after the pre-launch of the 20th Petaling Jaya City Anniversary and MBPJ staff gathering at Dewan Sivik MBPJ here this morning.
He added that among the main draws of the celebration are PJ Learning City Festival 2026, which centres forums on education, digital literacy, skills development, cyber security, AI, and knowledge-sharing.
Zahri said another event, PJ Digital 2026, would feature technology and innovation exhibitions, VR experiences, interactive activities, and e-sports tournaments to improve digital literacy in the community.
In terms of sustainability, MBPJ’s programmes include the PJ Eco Recycling Plaza Open Day, Trash to Cash, e-waste collection, used cooking oil collection, and a recycling workshop.
“This effort is in line with the city’s commitment to sustainable development and circular economy practices in the community,” he added.
The anniversary celebration will also be made merrier with a food festival, cultural and busking performances, family activities, health programmes, a children’s play zone, a LEGO Robotics contest, and special activities for senior citizens.
The climax of the celebration will be on June 20 at Laman MBPJ on Jalan Yong Shook Lin, with a parade featuring delegations from schools, higher learning institutions, the healthcare sector, hotel industry, non-governmental organisations, and strategic agencies.
“The people are invited to make this celebration merrier and join the various activities throughout the six days,” Zahri said.
