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Gombak is a significant administrative district situated in the eastern-central region of Selangor, Malaysia. It holds historical importance, having been established on February 1, 1974, concurrently with Kuala Lumpur's designation as a Federal Territory. This strategic location places it adjacent to the bustling capital, Kuala Lumpur, and within the economic heartland of the Klang Valley. The district's administrative seat was relocated to Bandar Baru Selayang in 1997, marking a period of continued development and urbanization. Gombak is recognized for its blend of natural attractions and a growing urban landscape, making it a diverse area within the Malaysian state of Selangor.
The district encompasses various localities, including Batu Arang, Kuang, Rawang, Kundang, Gombak town, Selayang, Batu Caves, and Hulu Kelang. The Gombak River, which originates in this district, famously merges with the larger Klang River in Kuala Lumpur, a confluence historically regarded as the symbolic birthplace of Kuala Lumpur. This geographical feature underscores Gombak's connection to the broader development of the region. The district's evolution from a town to a district status reflects its increasing prominence and population growth, influenced by its proximity to Kuala Lumpur and its integration into the wider Klang Valley conurbation.
Gombak District is an administrative division within the state of Selangor, Malaysia. It is unique in that it is not governed by a single municipal council but is instead partly administrated by two distinct local governments: the Selayang Municipal Council, overseeing the western parts, and the Ampang Jaya Municipal Council, responsible for the eastern areas. This dual administrative structure falls under the jurisdiction of the state, not the district itself. The district's government is headed by a District Officer, with a Sultan's Representative also playing a role in its governance. This administrative setup reflects the historical development and geographical distribution of urban and suburban areas within Gombak.
The district is further divided into four mukims (sub-districts). Gombak also serves as a federal constituency, represented in the Dewan Rakyat (House of Representatives) since 1995. This federal constituency was carved out of the Selayang constituency in 1994, with its representative chosen through a first-past-the-post voting system. Additionally, the Gombak District encompasses several State Legislative Assembly seats, each with its own state assembly member. This multi-tiered governance structure ensures representation and administration at various levels, from local municipal services to state and federal legislative matters, reflecting Malaysia's federal constitutional monarchy system.
Gombak's economy has been experiencing rapid growth, largely attributed to its strategic proximity to Kuala Lumpur and its integral position within the Klang Valley, Malaysia's central economic hub. The property industry in Gombak is actively developing, aligning with the capital's expansion, with significant infrastructure projects, particularly highways, roads, and public transportation networks, acting as catalysts for further economic impetus. These developments indicate a shift towards a more urbanized economy, attracting both residents and businesses. The district's economic landscape is characterized by a diverse range of property types, from affordable housing to high-end developments, catering to varied market demands.
Beyond real estate, Gombak is becoming an educational hub, hosting institutions such as the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) and UniKL British Malaysia Institute. This concentration of educational facilities contributes to the local economy through job creation and services catering to the student population. The availability of comprehensive amenities, including government and private hospitals, clinics, and numerous shopping facilities like Selayang Star City Mall and M3 Mall, further supports economic activity and enhances the living environment for residents. These factors collectively contribute to Gombak's expanding economic footprint within the Selangor state.
Gombak boasts a rapidly developing infrastructure, crucial for its growth as a key district within Selangor. Its road network is comprehensive, featuring major expressways such as the Duta-Ulu Kelang Expressway (DUKE), Ampang-Kuala Lumpur Elevated Highway (AKLEH), and the Middle Ring Road I and II (MRR I and II). Other significant highways like the Guthrie Highway, North-South Highway (PLUS), and Damansara-Puchong Highway further enhance connectivity, allowing for efficient travel within the district and to other parts of the Klang Valley. Future highway projects, including the Sungai Besi-Ulu Kelang Expressway and East Klang Valley Expressway, are planned to further improve accessibility. This extensive road system is complemented by a robust public transportation network, including buses, KTM commuter rail, and LRT services, ensuring convenient mobility for residents and commuters.
The district's infrastructure also extends to essential services. Gombak is served by two government hospitals, Hospital Selayang and Hospital Sungai Buloh, alongside several private hospitals and clinics, providing widespread healthcare access. Educational infrastructure is well-established, with numerous primary and secondary schools, including national, Chinese, and Tamil medium schools, vocational colleges, and religious schools. The presence of higher education institutions like the International Islamic University Malaysia further solidifies its position as an educational hub. Additionally, a multitude of shopping facilities, ranging from large malls to local markets, cater to the daily needs and retail demands of the growing population, underscoring the district's comprehensive urban development.