MINISTER in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories), Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa, has refuted claims that the Kota Madani development in Precinct 19 is a wasteful initiative or an attempt to replace Putrajaya.
In a Facebook statement on Wednesday, she addressed what she described as public misunderstandings regarding the RM4 billion project.
“Since the initial announcement, I’ve noticed many questions and misconceptions arising. So, I would like to clarify the facts,” she said.
Dr Zaliha explained that Kota Madani occupies only 102 acres, which represents just 0.8 per cent of the entire area of Putrajaya.
The project, she noted, is being developed through a public-private partnership model known as Build-Lease-Maintain-Transfer (BLMT), with no direct government expenditure.
“The development cost of RM4 billion will be fully borne by the developer, Putrajaya Holdings, including maintenance throughout the lease period,” she said.
“After 25 years, the entire project will become government property.”
She stressed that the initiative is based on necessity, citing over 17,000 outstanding applications for civil service housing.
“Kota Madani will provide 10,000 new quarters for civil servants. This is not about wants, but about needs,” she said.
Responding to criticism of the project’s name, Dr Zaliha clarified that “Madani” is not a political label, but a reflection of values such as humanity, justice, balance, and sustainability.
“Kota Madani is being developed in line with the CHASE vision – a city that is clean, healthy, advanced, safe, and eco-friendly,” she said.
“There are also elements of low-carbon living, green networks, smart mobility, and cutting-edge technology.”
She concluded by emphasising that civil servants deserve proper housing and that Putrajaya should continue to be strengthened as a progressive and inclusive administrative capital.
“Let us not continue to mislead the public with false narratives,” she added. - June 25, 2025
