Build homes as promised, developer told

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Written by Mohana

Thursday, 21 January 2010 05:07

THE Federal Territories and Urban Wellbeing Ministry said the developer, YTL Land & Development Bhd, must do the right thing and build houses for the poor in Kg Railway in Sentul as promised.

Its minister, Datuk Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin, said the ministry was firm on this and would not allow the developer to shirk its responsibility.

“You must honour your commitments, especially to the poor people, who are in need of housing. Even though the promise was made by the previous owner, when you acquired the land, you also acquired the liabilities. In this case, the liability was a promise made 15 years ago.”

Nong Chik said that as the Federal Territories Minister, he is also duty bound to honour promises made to the people.

“The Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) is merely helping out in facilitating low-cost units in Kg Muhibbah in Puchong. But I agree with the people that Kg Muhibbah is far away from Sentul and not feasible. As such the developer must build the low- and medium-cost units as promised,’’ he said. The minister said the private sector, especially landowners, must practice corporate social responsibility (CSR) when developing projects in their respective areas.

Nong Chik, who was speaking to reporters after officiating at a ground-breaking ceremony at KL Sentral recently, said developers must not merely be profit-driven.

“Don’t expect the government to do everything. Make it your social responsibility that when you develop your land, you must also consider the community’s interests.

“I am certain that what you do for the community will not only benefit the people living near the project area but will enhance your image and be branded as a responsible company,’’ he added.

Meanwhile, Deputy Minister Datuk M. Saravanan said he was confident there would be an amicable solution to the issue as YTL Land & Development Bhd had agreed to meet and discuss the matter.

“I believe we can find a solution.

“DBKL issued a development order back then to Sentul Raya and 30% of the development was to be reserved for low-cost flats. The DBKL will not change its conditions as these few areas have been identified for low-cost developments. I don’t see how the developer can avoid building these,’’ Saravanan said.

Source: The Star 20th January 2010