Mukhriz: Dr M wrote to PM on plight of Kg Baru villagers

 

Former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad has written to Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob seeking his attention over the plight of Kampung Baru villagers facing eviction after their land was acquired for a redevelopment project, Pejuang president Mukhriz Mahathir said.

"Tun (Mahathir) wrote a letter to the prime minister last week asking that he gives the appropriate attention and action, as well as to give the people here space to air their thoughts," he told an engagement session with residents of Jalan Sungai Baru in Kampung Baru, Kuala Lumpur, yesterday.

Mukhriz said Mahathir, who is also the Pejuang chairperson, was of the opinion that the eviction was inappropriate, especially after the two-year Covid-19 pandemic.

However, Mukhriz said Ismail Sabri had yet to respond.

"There is no reply yet as he is busy overseas," he added.

Mukhriz said Pejuang is offering legal aid to the residents and wants direct intervention from the prime minister.

Pejuang president Mukhriz Mahathir

The residents have for months lobbied Ismail Sabri to intervene but they have yet to get a response.

Land acquisition

Under the Land Acquisition Act 1960, the government may acquire any land for any public purpose.

Land acquisition can also be invoked if the land is needed by any person or corporation for any purpose that, in the opinion of the state authority, is beneficial to the economic development of the country or any class of the public.

The acquisition was invoked under the then government headed by Muhyiddin Yassin. The federal territories minister at the time was Annuar Musa.

Annuar was succeeded by Shahidan Kassim under the Ismail Sabri government.

Kampung Baru, Kuala Lumpur

Under the land acquisition action, a sum of between RM198,000 to RM350,000 is being offered as compensation to the residents, depending on the size of their property.

However, the residents are worried about not being able to find accommodation in an area like Kampung Baru, which is strategically located in the city centre with various public facilities, including a hospital.

Mukhriz claimed that the government and developers were taking advantage of the "weaknesses" of the residents.

"That is why one aspect that we need to strengthen is their legal defence. That is why we are offering to speak up on their behalf by appointing a panel of lawyers," he added.

Mukhriz said the residents should not be denied fair compensation. - Mkini