Update on Joint Community Project- INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT & URBAN COMMUNITIES

Brief Review 

 

As a follow up to our June 2, 2013 discussions we had six working groups discussing (between June 23 till July 7, 2013) specific areas of concerns. The data is being put together for our review. The issues raised and discussed are not new and so the discussions were similar to previous ones. We have managed to build partnerships and strengthen our networks. A small core team has emerged with some sense of wanting to work together for some common good.

In terms of monitoring delivery and impact various ideas were highlighted but the general principle is not to duplicate what others are currently doing especially by those in some formal positions in Federal, state or local governments or in special appointments.

It is emphasised that the approach adopted is not partisan politics but working with all groups irrespective of political, sub ethnic and religious differences. We affirm the need to build bridges and work with anyone who is in a position of influence and responsibility so as to ensure that the poor, low income and disadvantaged has a better opportunity.

Way Forward

 In terms of the follow up for the immediate we thought of approaching it not from the macro approach of the promises made and the delivery by agencies but by going to the ground to urban low cost flat or house areas and discuss with them on a range of aspects if they are receiving the info and have access to the promises made by Federal, state and local governments. It will undertake case studies in social mobility.

We will do a brief neighbourhood profile of the community and identify the local leaders who are residing in the neighbourhoods. We will identify local grassroots organisations and NGOs working with them. It’s a ‘bottoms up approach’ and not ‘top down’ in monitoring promises, delivery and implementation. It is hearing the conversations from the affected people from the grassroots.

We will review current status including data, info and access to services using 10 indicators :-

·         Registration in pre-school and performance at primary and secondary schools

·         Access to skills training, MRSM, & post-secondary school opportunities

·         Poverty eradication program – ekasih registration & cases to 1Azam programs

·         Micro credit programs like Teku, AIM

·         Employment, unemployment and underemployment issues

·         Housing and local infrastructure issues – lifts, lighting, maintenances, garbage collection, play areas, basic facilities-community halls, place for religious activities, community halls etc

·         Crime, social ills, gang related issues and dysfunctional family issues

·         Participation in youth based activities – games, social clubs, cultural programs

·         Neighbourhood relations with other ethnic and religious communities

·         Participations in local government matters including residence association, RT etc

Local Field Visits

·         Sri Pulai Flats, Balakong on July 21, 2013 at 4.30pm

·         Taman Sentosa, Klang and Simpang Lima Tamil School, Klang on July 28, 2013 at 4.30pm

Notes by Datuk Dr Denison Jayasooria (July 21, 2013)