PETALING JAYA: Kuala Lumpur residents have voiced concerns that the Urban Renewal Act poses a risk of forced displacement and unfair treatment of property owners, says MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong (pic).
This, he said, was based on a memorandum he received from the Kuala Lumpur Residents’ Action for Sustainable Development regarding the proposed act.
The Kuala Lumpur Residents’ Action for Sustainable Development represents 75 residents’ associations, management committees and joint management committees in Kuala Lumpur.
Other concerns outlined in the memorandum included a lack of genuine consultation with affected communities and the potential for misuse that contradicts sustainable and inclusive development goals.
The group also called for a postponement of all redevelopment projects until transparent, fair and inclusive processes are put in place.
"I fully acknowledge the voices of residents who will be most affected by this Act. Development should not marginalise communities but instead empower them and safeguard their rights," said Dr Wee in a post on Facebook.
"As an MP, I will continue to raise these concerns in Parliament and work together with non-governmental organisations, civil society and community groups to ensure that urban renewal policies truly reflect the needs of the people," he added.
The Ayer Hitam MP said the government must strike a balance between development and social justice as every policy can directly impact the people.
