Kuala lumpur: Compensation payments to residents of Kampung Sungai Baru who opposed the development project in the area have been completed, with amounts ranging from RM198,000 to RM2.9 million, depending on the type of house. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa stated that the compensation was based on market values determined by the Department of Valuation and Property Services (JPPH), with terrace houses ranging from RM800,000 to RM2.9 million and flat units from RM198,000 to RM350,000.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, all payments were fully disbursed to residents between February 2022 and January 2023. The compensation package also included relocation expenses, rental, valuation fees, and loss of income. Dr Zaliha clarified that compensation was provided not only to property owners but also to current tenants at the time of acquisition, covering both rental losses and relocation costs.
Dr Zaliha elaborated that the amounts offered during the land acquisition were more favorable than the actual market value, highlighting that property transaction records from 2015 and 2019 showed lower original market values for flat units and terrace houses. She mentioned that property owners dissatisfied with the compensation could seek recourse through legal channels, with the government respecting court rulings.
She emphasized that court proceedings would not impede the progress of the Kampung Sungai Baru development. Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) provided temporary housing for residents who disagreed with the land acquisition, offering accommodation at People's Housing Programme (PPR) locations with varying rental rates.
Dr Zaliha noted that DBKL approved several three-year PPR rental applications at a nominal rate, and the developer offered logistical support to residents accepting temporary housing. On Sept 11, media reports highlighted a tense situation at Kampung Sungai Baru, where residents facing eviction refused to vacate their homes. The land acquisition involves 67 terrace houses and 14 apartment blocks, with the process having commenced in 2016.