KUALA LUMPUR: The nearly decade-long wait for Kampung Sungai Baru residents has finally ended, as the long-delayed redevelopment project in the area has officially kicked off.
Planning ahead: Dr Zaliha (fourth from right) with a model house at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Kampung Sungai Baru Redevelopment Project, with Mohd Na’im (second from right) looking on. — Bernama
The project is expected to be completed within four years.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa said the project would not only provide residents with more modern and comfortable homes, but also offer various additional incentives as a gesture of appreciation for their patience.
“Today, we are opening the project site for residents to see for themselves the improved living conditions they can look forward to. I believe this is a joyful moment for them,” she said at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Kampung Sungai Baru Redevelopment Project yesterday, Bernama reported.
Hundreds of resident representatives attended the ceremony and viewed an exhibition showcasing the model homes being developed.
Also present were Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Fadlun Mak Ujud and Kuala Lumpur police chief Comm Datuk Fadil Marsus.
Dr Zaliha said the new residential units will range from 900 to 1,200sq ft and come with three bedrooms and three bathrooms – a significant upgrade from the original homes.
She also announced several incentives agreed upon by the developer, including free maintenance charges for the first year, followed by a 70% discount from the second to 10th year.
“The developer has also agreed to provide additional home fittings such as air conditioning units and kitchen hoods, worth up to RM2mil.
“In addition, a new access road to the Ampang-Kuala Lumpur Elevated Expressway will be constructed for RM15mil, fully funded by the developer,” she said.
Dr Zaliha added that she would personally monitor the project’s progress, with support from relevant agencies and residents, to ensure completion within the stipulated time frame.
Meanwhile, Mohd Na’im, who hails from Kampung Sungai Baru, expressed his gratitude to the government, particularly Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, for resolving the long-standing issue.
“We have finally closed a chapter that dragged on for 10 years. I hope residents will help monitor the project to ensure it is completed according to the promised quality and timeline,” he said.
The drawing of lots to determine residential unit allocation is expected to open to residents within the next two months.
Meanwhile, two men and two women were detained for allegedly attempting to incite unrest during the groundbreaking ceremony.
Comm Fadil said the arrests were made at about 8.50am following information of a planned gathering earlier that morning, believed to be aimed at sparking disorder at the event.
He said the individuals, aged between 39 and 47, had allegedly shouted and caused a disturbance during security operations at the ceremony.
Source: The Star
