PUTRAJAYA, Sept 18 — The government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the interests of Malays in Kampung Baru, Kuala Lumpur, ensuring they are not sidelined in any future redevelopment plans for the historic enclave.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa said any development will be carried out with care, in accordance with legal provisions, and with full respect for the cultural and historical significance of the area.
She also warned against attempts to politicise the issue or disrupt community harmony.
“The government’s position is in line with the decree of His Royal Highness the Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj, to ensure Kampung Baru remains a symbol of continued dignity and (any decision or development initiative) takes into account the interests of the Malays in Kuala Lumpur,” Dr Zaliha said in a statement today.
She added that the government upholds and respects the Sultan’s views on the historical value, future direction, and redevelopment approach for Kampung Baru.
Earlier today, Sultan Sharafuddin decreed that the redevelopment of Kampung Baru in Kuala Lumpur must be handled carefully and wisely, with utmost respect and priority placed on the interests of the Malays.
The Sultan said Kampung Baru was established in 1899 and officially recognised as a Malay settlement for agricultural purposes, a designation granted by his late ancestor, the fifth Sultan of Selangor Sultan Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah, through the Selangor Government Gazette dated January 12, 1900, which classified it as a Malay Agricultural Settlement (MAS).
