KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (Tambun-PH) has assured that priority will be given to the Malay community in Kg Baru when considering development activities involving the local enclave.
Addressing the Dewan Rakyat today, Anwar, who is also finance minister, said he opposed options being proposed to homeowners in the area if they go against the principle of ensuring the residents’ welfare.
“There have been suggestions for private companies to handle the development of Kg Baru, which is considered a Malay agricultural settlement, and to enact leasing agreements (with Kg Baru folk).
“However, (leasing Kg Baru land) for up to 60, 99 years will jeopardise the position of Malay residents… even if private parties were to come in and upscale the neighbourhood, it cannot come to a point where leasing contracts allow non-Malays to own properties in the area.
“I cannot agree with any leasing proposal (as) it does not defend the interests of Malay residents (and will instead) create more anxiety among the Malays,” he said.
Anwar said this when answering a question posed by Azli Yusof (Shah Alam-PH) on whether Putrajaya will continue to develop Kg Baru in line with the goal of Kuala Lumpur Smart City 2030.
Noting that he will be looking into how developments in the locality can be carried out while protecting the rights of residents, Anwar also said that any policy proposed by previous governments will not be accepted if they do not support the “principle” of protecting Malay landowners.
“All earlier decisions that align with the position of guarding Malay rights will proceed as planned but policies that contradict the principle of protecting (Malay rights) are not accepted. God willing, I will prove it.
“Even if it takes a longer time (to come up with development plans), we must find a way to defend Malay residents’ interests.
“We will discuss with former federal territories ministers and ensure that development proceeds smoothly. Give me some time to study the issue,” he said, stressing that his words are not empty promises as he has already taken steps to halt programmes which might risk Malay residents’ status.
“I have given assurances and have also postponed some programmes I am not sure will defend the rights of the Malays in Kg Baru.
“Regarding housing, stalls and also the smart city (project), all were carried out without compromising Malay rights,” he said. – The Vibes, February 21, 2023
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