Nurul runs down steep walkways

The opposition MP is seeking answers over the astronomical figures involved in the construction of walkways in the city, and wonders if an open tender was issued.

KUALA LUMPUR: Lembah Pantai MP Nurul Izzah Anwar has expressed concern over the cost involved in the construction of pedestrian walkways in the city.

In a statement, the PKR vice-president expressed mixed feelings over the 142m air-conditioned walkway which is estimated to cost approximately RM10 million.

“As a Federal Territory Pakatan Rakyat MP, I’m happy that such an infrastructure is built for the benefit of KL residents and tourists,” she said.

“But the figure involved translates to an average of RM70,422 per meter, an amount which demands clarification as public monies were undoubtedly used,” she added.

Nurul wanted to know the exact figures for the construction of these walkways.

“What are the maintenance and operational costs involved and as the unit price of energy increases how will these costs increase over time?” she asked.

Yesterday, the Minister for Federal Territories and Urban Wellbeing Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin launched the first phase of this project, which links KLCC to Hotel Impiana KLCC.

Nurul also enquired whether an open tender was issued as government linked companies and agencies, like Petronas, Syarikat Prasarana and KLCC Holdings, were involved in the project.

Petronas reportedly contributed RM100 million to two phases which will link KLCC to Impiana and eventually to Jalan Raja Chulan. Another RM6 million was contributed by Syarikat Prasarana for six other walkways.

“At a time when Malaysian citizens are told to ‘change their lifestyle’ as the price of basic goods and petrol increases, I welcome efforts by all parties to develop basic infrastructure for pedestrians in KL.

“At the same time, I call upon all related government ministries, agencies, and organisations to lead by example and end such excessive expenditure,” she said.

Nurul also called on Raja Nong Chik and KL mayor Ahmad Fuad Ismail to provide “truthful” answers to her queries.

She added that the matter further underscored the importance of having an elected mayor. - FMT