The Malaysian Insight

DR Mahathir Mohamad wants Kampung Baru residents to vote for Pejuang for a better deal in the redevelopment of Kampung Sungai Baru in Kuala Lumpur. 

The former prime minister said there was nothing much that Pejuang could do in the current situation.

“There isn’t much we can do now as we are only bystanders. We will have the power to do things for you if we become the government of the day,” said Dr Mahathir last night at Kampung Baru during a meeting with residents.

Also present were his wife Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali, party president Mukhriz Mahathir, deputy president Marzuki Yahya and Amanah communications director Khalid Abdul Samad.

Last month, Kampung Baru Development Corporation (PKB) said the land acquisition for the Sungai Baru, Kampung Baru redevelopment project must continue as it has met the legal requirements under the Land Acquisition Act 1960, although some owners are against it.

According to PKB, the land acquisition for the Sungai Baru redevelopment project was gazetted under section 8 of the Act on June 21 last year involving 37 terrace lots, 72 flat units and one Tenaga Nasional Bhd electrical substation lot.

Dr Mahathir said Pejuang had many ideas to solve the issue but it did not have the power to do it.

“That is why if you want the right answer from the right people then change the government…topple it,” said the Pejuang chairman.

Dr Mahathir said he would not want the Malay village, which he described as being run-down, to be left as it is now.

“We want developments here for tourists to come by but in a proper way that benefits the Malay community here.

“For instance, we want a joint venture with the developer so that the land remains with the Malay people here and they can get returns from it.

“But to execute these ideas, we (Pejuang) have to be in power,” said Dr Mahathir. – August 1, 2022.