PETALING JAYA: The 122-year old Convent Bukit Nanas is a “national treasure” that must be gazetted as a heritage site and preserved, says the Save KL Coalition (SKL).
“This is a building with heritage and historical value that is irreplaceable. Not everything should be measured in dollars and cents,” said SKL chairman M Ali.
Questions had been raised over the fate of the school after the government decided against extending the school’s land lease which is set to expire on Sept 6.
The school has obtained leave to challenge the government’s decision.
Ali said Convent Bukit Nanas has churned out many notable students including entertainers, professionals, athletes, and national leaders.
Prominent alumni include former international trade and industry minister Rafidah Aziz, lawyer Ambiga Sreenevasan, activist Ivy Josiah, former national gymnast Dr Farrah Hani Imran, and singer and actress Adibah Noor among others.
“There are many other areas that can be developed or redeveloped. There is a property overhang in the city, what other development could we possibly need?”
Ali said the government should follow the stellar example set by Singapore in preserving its heritage.
“Just compare KL to Singapore. We are nowhere near when it comes to preserving our heritage or having green lungs and open spaces.
“Please do not tell me that golf courses are green lungs because they are not accessible to everyone.”
With “very few” heritage sites left, Ali said the government must not repeat the mistakes of previous administrations and preserve Convent Bukit Nanas.
Meanwhile, lawyer Derek Fernandez urged Putrajaya to intervene in the non-extension of the lease and list it as a national heritage site under the National Heritage Act 2005.
“I hope the government will immediately intervene and extend the lease for Convent Bukit Nanas,” he said in a statement. - FMT
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