11-05-2025
Klang folk can bring disputes for mediation
(From left) Thong, Ng, Mohammed Khusrin, Abd Hamid and Mohd Firdaus cutting the ribbon to mark the launch of the Klang District Mediation Centre. — ART CHEN/The Star
A community mediation centre has been launched in Klang to help people resolve disputes in a neutral manner.
Klang mayor Datuk Abd Hamid Hussain, who launched the Klang District Community Mediation Centre, said the free service was a valuable alternative to legal action as it offered a more amicable way to resolve disputes.
'With the help of a trained mediator, conflicts or friction can be resolved through open communication where parties can attempt to reach a mutually agreeable solution while keeping the discussions private and confidential,' he said.
The mediation centre was set up by Council of Justices of the Peace Selangor (Klang) with the support of National Unity and National Integration Department (JPNIN) Klang District, and under the purview of Klang Royal City Council (MBDK) Corporate Communications Department.
Abd Hamid said the mediation centre had potential to address neighbourhood squabbles such as those stemming from noise disturbances, putting up barbed wire fences without approval and parking disputes.
JP Klang district president Datuk Thong Young Koon said the mediation centre, with the support of JPNIN, was able to resolve 21 conflicts from 2024 to April 2025 at community level, preventing the cases from festering further.
'Cases were handled practically by mediators under the guidance of JPNIN,' he said.
Mediation is a free service that supports people experiencing conflict or communication issues.
Thong added that a professional and neutral mediator helped prevent friction and minor disputes from escalating into major conflicts, which could negatively impact a harmonious society.
'Our centre at Plaza MBDK (Orchard Square Klang) at Jalan Pos Baru will serve as a dedicated space for the public to seek help on community matters.
'We have 23 trained mediators that work closely with JPNIN Klang district, MBDK and the police,' he said.
Thong added that JP Klang members were pleased to give back to the local community through mediation services.
JPNIN Klang district unity officer Mohd Firdaus Sulaiman said mediation centres played a crucial role in supporting ordinary folks, and it aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16, helping individuals avoid costly and time-consuming litigation, ultimately contributing to more harmonious neighbourhoods.
'Mediation sessions are conducted in a confidential and private setting, allowing parties to feel comfortable discussing sensitive issues,' he added.
Also present at the event were Selangor palace representative Datuk Mohammed Khusrin Munawi, JP Selangor advisor Datuk Steven Tee and JP Selangor president Datuk Ng Seing Liong.
