Kuala Lumpur: The Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has been urged to carefully examine historical elements to be retained in urban redevelopment involving 139 identified areas, said Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. He emphasized the importance of preserving historical elements as a means of maintaining memories, particularly for the original residents of these areas, in the quest for sustainable and resilient urban development.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi highlighted the history of certain areas that were once squatter settlements comprising wooden houses, relocated due to the construction of the New Pantai Expressway (NPE). These areas hold memories for residents, including some of Fahmi's staff, who were relocated there. He stressed the significance of these memories, which can help future generations understand the community's historical context.
Fahmi, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Lembah Pantai, made these remarks during the groundbreaking ceremony for Taman Rimba Bukit Kerinchi at Pantai Sentral Park, a project developed by IJM Land and Amona Group. The event was attended by notable figures such as DBKL Planning Executive Director Datuk Zulkurnain Hassan, IJM Land CEO Datuk Tony Ling, and Director cum CEO of Amona Group, Datuk Che Hasnadi Che Hassan.
Furthermore, Fahmi noted that specific areas within Lembah Pantai, including Taman Bukit Angkasa, have been earmarked for redevelopment due to aging infrastructure. He called for clear legislation to ensure that all residents, particularly property owners, benefit from the redevelopment. Fahmi emphasized the need for DBKL's redevelopment initiatives to align with a prospective Urban Renewal Act.
In addition, thousands of trees, such as the Meranti Damar, Meranti Daun, and Merawan Siput Jantan species, are set to be replanted at Taman Rimba Bukit Kerinchi, with completion anticipated by the end of the year. Fahmi urged developers to incorporate historical aspects into the park's design, reflecting the area's rich history and community traditions.