Great Britain used to be an empire with colonies all over the world which included Malaya and Singapore. After gaining independence from GB, the former colonies became members of the Commonwealth, a loose association of nations with close relations with their former colonial masters.
Dr. Mahathir was quick to thumb his nose at Britain when he declared 'Buy British last' policy which had the effect of Queen Elizabeth rolling out her red carpet to him, which must have been his greatest moment as PM of Malaysia. Later, Seri Carcosa was 'nationalised' in exchange for a piece of land in Jalan Ampang where the British High Commission is today. Now this piece of land with an area of 1.22 hectare and valued at Rm196 million is up for sale! Before this, the out-sourced visa processing office which was located in Wisma MCA, also along Jalan Ampang had been relocated to Manila, in the Philippines! All the events point towards an austerity drive by the British government which cannot be anything but quite desperate measures to cut costs during current trying times in Europe. In contrast, we have just read about a Malaysian owning a yacht with a mind-boggling price of GBP3 billion! To be fair, this world record has been considered egoistic, conceited, insane, arrogant, insensitive and whatever appropriate descriptions, by fellow Malaysians affected by reductions in fuel and other subsidies). Apparently, the high price was mainly because certain parts of the yacht were made of gold and platinum! Of course, with today's rapid rising gold prices, even this seemingly foolish act could be considered as safe investment!
UK plans Ampang land sale
I cannot help wondering if the British sale of prime land in KL could be more than meets the eyes. Could it be the lack of confidence in our local political situation? - KoSong
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