KUALA LUMPUR: The Kuala Lumpur Social Welfare Organisation claims that the commotion in Kg Sungai Baru on Thursday (Sept 11) was sparked by external parties attempting to sway residents into rejecting the area’s redevelopment project.
Its chairman, Hussen Zulkarai, said the actions of these outsiders, who allegedly provoked tensions on the ground, were unwarranted, especially since a majority of residents had already agreed to relocate and accept the compensation offered by the developer.
"Most of the residents understand the benefits of this redevelopment and have agreed to vacate their homes. Some have even moved out and received fair compensation, including temporary rental allowances covered by the developer.
"The presence of these outsiders, with the intent to incite resistance, has only led to misunderstandings and unnecessary tension," he told a press conference here on Friday (Sept 12).
According to Hussen, all documentation related to the project had been properly approved by the Land Office and relevant government agencies, proving that the development was going through legitimate and legal channels.
Hussen also clarified that the presence of police and Federal Reserve Unit (FRU) personnel at the site was solely to maintain public order, and not to intimidate or provoke residents.
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"Cooperation from all parties is crucial to ensure the smooth implementation of the Kg Sungai Baru redevelopment project. This issue should not be politicised, because ultimately, the residents themselves stand to benefit the most," he said.
The redevelopment project is expected to offer residents access to more modern and comfortable housing, with compensation for some property owners reportedly reaching into the millions of ringgit.
The commotion took a violent turn when Dang Wangi Police Chief ACP Sulizmie Affendy Sulaiman sustained a head injury, believed to have been caused by a rock thrown by an unidentified individual during the eviction and demolition operation involving 37 terrace houses in the area. - Bernama
