Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) is not directly involved in the nomination process of Kampung Baru Cina as a World Heritage Site under UNESCO, the Dewan Rakyat was told today. Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming emphasized that the initiative is a noble effort spearheaded by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) Malaysia, which is actively engaged in the preservation and protection of cultural heritage sites nationwide.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Nga stated that the government supports the initiative, provided the nomination process is inclusive and involves all villages, including Kampung Melayu, Kampung Baru Cina, and Kampung India. He highlighted that recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site would be a source of pride for all Malaysians. Nga addressed these points during a question-and-answer session in response to an inquiry from Datuk Dr Alias Razak (PN-Kuala Nerus) regarding the nomination of Kampung Baru Cina as listed in the Order of Business dated January 27.
Nga further commented on the international recognition of the nation's culture and history, noting its potential to enhance tourism appeal and stimulate local economic activities, especially with the upcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026. He mentioned that KPKT is ready to act as a liaison between professional bodies and relevant local leaders to facilitate the process.
Meanwhile, Nga reiterated KPKT's commitment to safeguarding and strengthening the well-being of Malaysians of all races through government allocations. He cited the ministry's allocation of RM15 million since last year for the development of Indian villages as an example. Under the fourth MADANI Budget approved by the government, Nga mentioned that KPKT will continue upgrading basic and social infrastructure in Kampung Baru Cina and Indian villages with a total allocation of RM87 million.
Nga highlighted high-impact initiatives like the Kampung Good Competition, which aims to identify Kampung Baru products with strong potential for commercialisation. He noted that this demonstrates KPKT's ongoing commitment to ensuring balanced development across all communities, serving as a platform for unity and helping to bridge socio-economic gaps among Malaysians. Nga was responding to a question from Datuk Seri Dr Ismail Abd Muttalib (PN-Maran) about the assessment of development allocations for Kampung Baru Cina in strengthening national unity rather than widening community gaps.