Kg Baru, KL’s last Malay enclave

Hasnoor Hussain5 years ago23rd Oct 2019Pictures

Kampung baru 20190927 hasnoor 02 — The contrast between Kg Baru and its surrounding areas is stark. Most of the properties in the Malay enclave are either single- or double-storey houses, sitting in the shadows of Kuala Lumpur's skyscrapers and modern high-rise buildings. - The Malaysian Insight pic by Hasnoor Hussain, October 23, 2019.

THE hustle and bustle in Kuala Lumpur’s business district dies down when the sun sets, but not in Kg Baru.

KL folk, after leaving their offices, head for the city’s last Malay enclave for dinner. Considered a “food haven”, Kg Baru has a number of eateries that serve up a variety of dishes, from local favourites to Western fare.

As diners tuck in, verses from the Quran are heard from the speakers of Kg Baru Jamek Mosque, neon lights from food stalls and restaurants illuminate the area, and the streets are filled with vehicles making their way home during the evening rush hour.

Federal Territories Minister Khalid Abdul Samad has said an announcement on Kg Baru land acquisition will be made tomorrow at the Kuala Lumpur City Hall lobby.

On October 6, Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad said the land will be sold to a government agency to be developed, and not to other parties.

The government agency will help landowners develop Kg Baru without neglecting the area’s original features, he assured.

On September 21, Putrajaya offered to buy the land at RM850 per square foot.

However, most residents said the offer is too low given the area’s strategic location, and requested a review of the offer. – October 23, 2019.