Mohd Azizi (left) greeting children and youths during the event.

PETALING Jaya City Council (MBPJ) is allocating cash prizes and grants worth RM261,000 for the PJ Sustainable Community Award 2017.

The award has been held annually for 16 years and this year, two new categories have been introduced – for children below 18 and youths between 19 and 35 years.

Petaling Jaya mayor Datuk Mohd Azizi Mohd Zain said the new categories were created to encourage participation from the younger generation.

“We have categories for groups such as Rukun Tetangga and residents association.

“Non-governmental organisations and associations are also welcome to participate.

Mohd Azizi (standing) speaking at the launch of the Sustainable Community Award 2017.

“We hope they take advantage of this opportunity to win cash as well as grants to further expand their projects,” said Mohd Azizi at the launch of the PJ Sustainable Community Award 2017 at the Curve, Mutiara Damansara, Petaling Jaya.

The mayor cited the I-Play Park in Damansara Damai as an example of successful engagement between the public and MBPJ.

It has theme-based activity corners, an open classroom setting called the I-Think Chalk Board and open mic-like space called I-Green where youths can present talent-based performances.

“MBPJ is committed to working with the public so that we can ensure the end user benefit. The I-Play Park is a good example because most of the ideas come from children living in the vicinity.

“If the council were to create a playground we would think of traditional facilities like swings and slides,” said Mohd Azizi.

He added the local council had embarked on a digital platform called PJKita to disseminate information on happenings in the city.

For details, call 03-7956 3544 or visit www.pjkitasca.my